Do your eyes ever twitch? If so, you’re not alone. Many people experience this annoying phenomenon from time to time. In most cases, eye twitching is nothing to worry about and goes away on its own. However, sometimes it can be a sign of a more serious problem. Let’s review what eye twitching is, when you should worry about it, and how to get rid of it.
What is Eye Twitching?
Eye twitching is a spasm of the eyelid muscles. It can affect the upper or lower lid, or both. Twitching usually lasts for a few seconds, but it may recur several times over a period of days or weeks. While eye twitching is relatively harmless, it can be quite bothersome.
Causes
There are several possible causes of eye twitching, including:
- Fatigue
- Stress
- Caffeine
- Dry eyes
- Eye strain
- Alcohol
Therefore, it is essential to get plenty of rest , take breaks often when working on the computer, and use artificial tears to keep your eyes lubricated. If you are a heavy caffeine drinker, try cutting back or eliminating it from your diet altogether if you are experiencing eye twitching.
When to Worry
In some rare cases, eye twitching can be a sign of a more serious neurological condition such as:
- Blepharospasm
- Cervical dystonia
- Dystonia
- Multiple sclerosis
- Oromandibular dystonia and facial dystonia
- Parkinson’s disease
- Tourette syndrome
If you experience any of the following symptoms along with your eye twitching, be sure to see your doctor immediately:
- Muscle weakness
- Paralysis
- Loss of coordination
These are all potential signs of a serious neurological condition that requires immediate medical attention.
Don’t let your eye twitching turn into a nervous tick! If you are concerned about your eye twitching, be sure to see your doctor. While most cases are harmless and will go away on their own, in rare cases it could be a sign of something more serious.
Find Relief
Let Dr. Mayli Davis, O.D. help you get to the bottom of your eye twitching. With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Davis has the knowledge and expertise to help you find relief. With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Davis has the knowledge and expertise to help you find relief. We are the number one experts for all your eye needs in the Colleyville, TX area. Schedule an appointment today!
