Eyelid twitching: Why?

This is an automatically translated article.

The article was professionally consulted by an eye doctor - Department of Examination & Internal Medicine - Vinmec Hai Phong International General Hospital

1. What is an eyelid twitch?

An eyelid twitch is a condition in which the eyelids experience repetitive, unnatural contractions of the eyelid muscles. This usually occurs on both the upper and lower eyelids.
Eyelid twitching usually happens very quickly a few seconds or one to two minutes. We cannot predict when eyelid twitches will come. The convulsions may disappear spontaneously and then reappear within days.

2. Why is eyelid twitching?

Eyelid twitching has many causes. Some influences such as stress, fatigue, poor diet, lack of sleep... can lead to eyelid twitching. Specifically:
2.1 Mental stress, fatigue The most common cause of eye twitching can be your mental stress and fatigue. The muscles around the eyes are very sensitive and our eyes need rest every day.

2.2 Diet Nervous system stimulants like caffeine and alcohol are a big cause of eyelid twitching. Coffee contains caffeine, which increases heart rate, stimulates metabolism and the activity of muscles, including eye muscles.
In addition, your body lacks magnesium or vitamin B12 is also the cause of eye twitching.
2.3 Tumors in the eye A tumor growing in the eye can also be a cause of your eye twitching. This is a dangerous disease that can cause permanent eye damage. Although the probability is low, you should not underestimate it. See your doctor early for timely examination and treatment.
2.4 Eye infections According to Dr. Mark Blecher, who works at Wills Hospital in Philadelphia, USA, eye twitching can be caused by an eye infection such as blepharitis. Bacteria that enter the eyelids are mostly caused by the dusty environment outside, causing the eyes to become inflamed and red.
2.5 The body is allergic to weather The manifestation of a weather allergy is feeling stuffy, difficult to breathe, itchy nose... a small part of which includes itching and eyelid twitching.

3. Is eyelid twitching dangerous?

There are many people who wonder about the question "Is eyelid twitching dangerous?". In fact, eyelid twitching will not cause pain and is not life-threatening. Most seizures come on very quickly for a few seconds and then go away on their own without needing any treatment.
In rare cases, eyelid twitching can be a symptom of a neurological disorder such as Parkinson's disease, facial nerve paralysis, hemifacial seizures... Especially if it is a sign of a more serious disease, the condition Eye twitching will be accompanied by twitching of other parts of the face.

4. Eyelid twitching treatment

Treatment of eyelid twitching depends on the cause, there will be specific treatment methods. You can refer to the following ways:
Eyelid twitching due to fatigue and stress can be done by applying warm compresses to the eyes, gently massaging the eye area. Dry eyes can be treated with artificial tears. Eyelid twitching due to sensitivity to dusty environments or strong light, you can wear sunglasses that protect your eyes from the sun's ultraviolet rays or wear anti-glare glasses when working on a computer. Change your sleeping habits and get enough sleep. Limit the use of stimulants such as: caffeine, alcohol, tobacco.. If you have eyelid twitches due to magnesium deficiency, you can supplement this substance from foods such as potatoes, pumpkin, radishes, vegetables. In severe cases of eyelid twitching, surgery may be necessary to remove some of the muscles and nerves in the eyelids. There are also other effective treatments such as Coenzyme Q10, acupuncture, hypnosis, massage therapy, nutritional therapy, psychotherapy, tai chi, yoga and meditation techniques for relaxation .

5. When do you need to see a doctor?

If you have an eyelid twitch for a long time and have any of the following signs, you need to see a doctor right away:
Unusual red and swollen eyes; drooping upper eyelid; Closed eyelids, affecting vision; eyelid twitching for several weeks; Eyelid twitching accompanied by convulsions of other parts of the face If you notice that the twitching lasts for a long time, you need to quickly see an ophthalmologist for examination and timely treatment.

Any questions that need to be answered by a specialist doctor as well as if you have a need for examination and treatment at Vinmec International General Hospital, please book an appointment on the website to be served.

Please dial HOTLINE for more information or register for an appointment HERE. Download MyVinmec app to make appointments faster and to manage your bookings easily.