Are You Troubled by Eye Twitching?

If you’ve ever experienced a sudden twitching of your eyelid, you’re not alone. Eye twitching, medically known as blepharospasm, is a common condition that can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender. While it’s often harmless, it can be quite bothersome and may indicate underlying stress or fatigue. AestheticEye in Cincinnati, OH, explores the causes of eye twitching, how to manage it and when to seek professional help.

What is Blepharospasm?

The National Eye Institute defines Blepharospasm (also called benign essential blepharospasm) as “blinking or other eyelid movements, like twitching, that you can’t control.” They also report that sometimes blepharospasm runs in families, and women ages 40 to 60 are more likely to develop it.

This condition is an involuntary contraction of the muscles around the eye that can lead to repetitive blinking or spasms. It can occur in one or both eyes and may be triggered by various factors. While it is generally not serious, chronic twitching can be annoying and may affect daily life.

The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke characterizes blepharospasm as a progressive condition that can worsen over time without treatment.

Common Causes of Eye Twitching

• Stress and Fatigue: One of the most common triggers of eye twitching is stress. High levels of stress can cause muscles to twitch, including those around the eyes. Similarly, fatigue and lack of sleep can exacerbate this condition.
• Caffeine and Alcohol: Consuming excessive caffeine or alcohol can lead to increased muscle activity, including spasms in the eye. Reducing your intake may help alleviate symptoms.
• Dry Eyes: Many people experience eye twitching due to dry eyes, especially those who spend long hours in front of screens. Dryness can irritate the eyelids and result in twitching.
• Eye Strain: Prolonged screen time or poor vision can lead to eye strain, which in turn can cause muscle spasms. Regular breaks and proper eye care can help reduce strain.
• Nutritional Deficiencies: A lack of essential nutrients, such as magnesium, can also contribute to muscle spasms, including those in the eyelids.

When to Seek Help for Eye Twitching

In most cases, eye twitching is benign and resolves on its own. However, if twitching persists for several weeks, is accompanied by other symptoms (such as pain, swelling or changes in vision) or interferes significantly with daily activities, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional. Persistent blepharospasm may indicate an underlying condition that requires attention. Our AestheticEye team has medical treatments, surgical and non-surgical options for treating persistent eye twitching.

Cincinnati OH Eye Twitching Treatment

Eye twitching can be an annoying yet common issue affecting many. Understanding the potential causes and implementing some simple lifestyle changes may help mitigate this condition. If you are struggling with eye twitching or blepharospasm, contact AestheticEye today to schedule a consultation. Our expert surgeons, Dr. Henson and Dr. Pargament, are here to help you explore your treatment options and develop a personalized plan to improve your comfort and quality of life.