Eyelid Twitching
Eyelid twitching is characterized as an involuntary and abnormal movement affecting the eyelid. This phenomenon can occur multiple times throughout the day, and if it becomes frequent, it may impact vision adversely. It’s important to note that eyelid movement is controlled by a pair of facial muscles: one responsible for closing the eyelid and the other for lifting it. When there is an issue with either or both of these muscles, involuntary twitching can occur. Eyelid twitching is classified into three primary types:
- Eyelid Twitch (Eyelid Myokymia): This is typically a mild, unilateral, involuntary spasm affecting either the lower or upper eyelid, or both at times. Eyelid twitching is a common condition that usually resolves on its own over time.
- Essential Blepharospasm: This is a rare medical condition considered a form of dystonia characterized by involuntary blinking that affects both eyes and may progressively lead to closure of the eyelids, applying pressure on the surrounding eye muscles.
- Hemifacial Spasm: This condition involves involuntary closure of one eye in addition to spasms in the cheek, mouth, and neck muscles on one side of the face only.
Causes of Left Eyelid Twitching
Generally, there is no significant difference between the causes of left and right eyelid twitching. Therefore, the underlying causes can apply regardless of whether the twitching occurs in the right or left eye, as is often the case with eyelid myokymia and hemifacial spasms, or even both eyes as seen in essential blepharospasm.
Causes of Eyelid Myokymia
Eyelid twitching may occur without any specific underlying cause, and it is rarely indicative of a serious health issue. Potential causes for eyelid twitching include:
- Eye Strain: Digital eye strain from excessive use of computers, tablets, and smartphones is a common cause of eyelid twitching. To mitigate digital eye strain, it is advisable to follow the 20-20-20 rule, which encourages individuals to look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds every 20 minutes. Consulting a physician about using specialized computer glasses to reduce digital strain is also recommended.
- Lack of Sleep: Insufficient sleep, whether due to stress or other reasons, can lead to eyelid twitching; thus, it is advisable to ensure adequate sleep duration.
- Dry Eyes: Many adults experience dry eyes, particularly after the age of 50. This condition is also prevalent among computer users, individuals taking certain medications like antihistamines and some antidepressants, as well as contact lens wearers.
- Stress: Stress is one of the most common triggers for eyelid twitching. Engaging in yoga, breathing exercises, and spending time with friends or pets can help alleviate stress that may cause eyelid twitches.
- Caffeine Intake: Consuming excessive caffeine can contribute to eyelid twitching. It is advisable to reduce the intake of coffee, tea, and soda or to replace these with caffeine-free alternatives for a week or two to determine if it alleviates the twitching.
- Alcohol Consumption: Drinking alcoholic beverages, such as beer or wine, can also lead to eyelid twitching.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: A deficiency in certain nutrients, such as magnesium, may trigger eyelid twitching.
- Allergies: Symptoms of eye allergies, such as itching, swelling, and frequent tearing, can result in eyelid twitching.
- Neurological Disorders: In rare cases, eyelid twitching may be a symptom of neurological disorders. Typically, it is accompanied by other specific symptoms of the disease. Some of these disorders include:
- Bell’s Palsy: Also known as facial paralysis, this condition causes one side of the face to droop.
- Dystonia: A condition that results in unexpected muscle spasms and twisting in the affected area.
- Spasmodic Torticollis: A medical condition that causes involuntary neck spasms and uncomfortable head twisting.
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS): This disease affects the central nervous system, leading to cognitive and motor difficulties, as well as fatigue.
- Parkinson’s Disease: This condition can cause tremors, muscle stiffness, balance issues, and difficulty speaking.
- Tourette Syndrome: A medical condition characterized by involuntary movements and vocal tics.
- Other Causes: Eye irritation, fatigue, side effects from certain medications, and undiagnosed corneal abrasions.
Causes of Essential Blepharospasm
The exact causes of essential blepharospasm remain unclear, although the disorder may arise from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Certain genetic changes may increase the likelihood of developing this condition, while various environmental influences may trigger symptoms in susceptible individuals. Notably, this condition may be associated with other forms of dystonia in adults, such as cervical dystonia and spasms in the hands and fingers. Researchers believe that essential blepharospasm is linked to dysfunction in the basal ganglia within the brain, which is responsible for initiating and controlling movement.
Causes of Hemifacial Spasm
Hemifacial spasms are the result of irritation to the seventh cranial nerve, known as the facial nerve, which controls facial muscles and transmits sensory information regarding taste from the tongue as well as sound from the ear. One of the most common causes of irritation to the facial nerve is pressure from a small artery on the facial nerve near the brainstem. In some instances, hemifacial spasms may be an early symptom of multiple sclerosis. Other potential causes include:
- The presence of a benign tumor or mass pressing on the seventh nerve.
- Abnormal vascular formations present at birth.
- Injury to the seventh nerve.
- Stroke.
Video on Eyelid Twitching
For more information regarding the causes of eyelid twitching, please watch the video.