Why is my eye twitching?
Common Reasons for Eye Twitching and What to Do about Them
Why is my eye twitching, you ask? Well, there are a multitude of possible reasons. While eye twitching is annoying, it is most often not a serious condition and tends to resolve itself. However, the jerky twitch of an eyelid can be enough to distract you from your work and make for awkward first impressions. The Visionworks team explains the common reasons behind eye twitching and what to do about them.
What is an eye twitch?
An eye twitch, or myokymia, is an uncontrollable, repetitive spasm of the eyelid muscles. Typically, an eyelid twitch affects the upper eyelid. However, it can occur in the upper or lower lids and can last anywhere from a few minutes to a few days. While eye twitches feel jarring and noticeable, they are less obvious than you’d think. You may assume everyone at your office meeting can see your eye twitching during your presentation, but they are probably more focused on the material you are presenting.
In some cases, people experience eye twitches so strong that both eyelids close completely. This condition is called blepharospasm, which is different from a garden-variety eyelid twitch. Typically, it affects both eyes. If the blinking becomes chronic, it is called benign essential blepharospasm. The exact cause of this condition is unknown—and it typically affects people in middle to late adulthood.
Most eyelid twitches are harmless and resolve on their own in a matter of minutes or days. However, external factors can contribute to your eyelid twitch and some spasms can be indicators of more serious conditions.
Why is my eye twitching?
Eye twitching can occur at any time for almost any reason. Since eyelid spasms are rarely a reason for serious concern and clear up on their own, the causes aren’t usually investigated. However, that doesn’t make the occasional eye twitch any less annoying! The Mayo Clinic lists possible causes of eye twitching, which can help you identify potential triggers. Keep in mind that finding the cause of your eye twitch may take some trial and error experimentation.
10 Possible Causes of Eye Twitches
Here are ten possible causes of your eye twitch and ways to address them.
Stress
Stress is a leading cause of eye twitches. Does your eyelid twitch tend to pop up when you are working on an important report for work or when you have to prepare for a public speaking engagement? Try to reduce your stress through meditative breathing exercises and see whether the twitching stops.
Fatigue
Lack of sleep can also cause eye twitches. If you stayed up late last night, that might be why you had an eye twitch this morning. Try regulating your sleep schedule to see whether the condition improves.
Digital Eye Strain
Digital eye strain can be caused by the blue light rays cast from laptops, tablets and smartphones. Digital eye strain symptoms include dry eyes, tired eyes, discomfort and even eye twitches. So, your time online may be contributing to your eyelid twitch.
Dryness or Irritation
Eye twitches are a typical response to eye dryness or irritation, which can be caused by windy weather conditions, allergies or wearing contact lenses for the first time. Artificial tears may relieve your eye dryness and twitch at the same time!
Allergies
Allergies can lead to eye irritation, which may be contributing to your eyelid twitch. Learn how to prevent seasonal allergies before they strike. Cleaning your house, wearing sunglasses outdoors and limiting time with pets could all help.
Caffeine
If your eyelid twitch starts after your third cup of coffee, caffeine may be the culprit. Try limiting your caffeine intake and see whether the twitch resolves.
Alcohol
Alcohol is another eyelid twitch trigger. While a glass of wine may sound relaxing, it may not be worth the pesky tic. Try substituting your evening wine for a cup of herbal tea and see whether that makes a difference.
Smoking
Smoking is bad for every aspect of your health. In addition to eye twitching, smoking can cause eye problems including glaucoma, macular degeneration and cataracts. It is best to kick the habit.
Diet
Not getting enough magnesium or potassium in your diet may cause an eyelid twitch, which is why people recommend eating a banana to remedy the twitching. Make sure you are incorporating the best foods for eye health into your daily diet.
Medications
Some medications list eye twitching as a possible side effect. Review your medications with your doctor to determine whether one might be the cause of your eye twitch.
How to Stop Eye Twitching
When an eye twitch starts to distract us, we just want to find a way to make it stop. Here are three tips to prevent eye twitching.
Observe Daily Habits
Observe your daily habits and take note of when your eye twitch starts. If eye twitching tends to occur after drinking coffee or wine, then you know what to do!
Make Lifestyle Changes
Make lifestyle changes and see if the twitching goes away. Try cutting out that extra cup of coffee or try blue light glasses to combat digital eye strain.
See if it Resolves Itself
More often than not, eye twitches resolve themselves. No need to worry about them unless they become a consistent problem.
When Eye Twitching is Serious
Very rarely, eyelid twitches can be a symptom of a more serious eye, brain or nerve condition. For example, eye twitching often accompanies blepharitis—eyelid inflammation caused by bacterial infections, malfunctioning oil glands or even eyelash mites. Eye twitches are also a common symptom for brain and nerve diseases like Bell’s palsy, dystonia and multiple sclerosis. In more serious conditions, eye twitches are almost always seen alongside other symptoms.
See your eye doctor when:
- Eye twitching lasts longer than 72 hours
- Eye spasms involve other facial muscles
- Eyelid twitches are accompanied by redness, swelling, discharge or droopy eyelids
Familiarize yourself with all the signs for when to see an eye doctor. When in doubt, make an appointment and get a professional opinion.
Information received through Visionworks® content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your eye doctor, physician, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Claims regarding blue light efficiency are supported by manufacturer-provided test results.
