A twitching eyelid, or eyelid spasm, is very common: You’re watching a movie, typing on the computer or reading a book and one eye begins to flutter and move on its own. The good news is, in most cases, it’s totally harmless. Here are a few reasons your eyelid may be twitching.

Eyelid Myokymia

This condition occurs when the eyelid muscles suddenly twitch involuntarily due to a misfiring of neurons. This can be caused by:

• Exhaustion
• Stress
• Dry eyes/allergies
• Caffeine
• Alcohol
• Tobacco
• Nutrition
• Foreign body in the eye

Thankfully, twitching of the eye for these reasons is nothing to worry about and should resolve on its own. Getting more rest, making lifestyle changes to lower your stress levels and living a healthier life day to day can all help alleviate the occasional eye twitching.

Essential Blepharospasm

This rare neurological condition occurs when the eyelids close on their own for brief periods of time. It begins with an increase of blinking and eye irritation that usually starts later in adulthood. Eventually, spasms around the eyes cause the eyes to wink or squint involuntarily for a few seconds to a few minutes at a time. It’s important to see a doctor if the twitching continues or worsens.

Hemifacial Spasm

Another rare neurological condition, hemifacial spasms occur on one side of the face with the twitching usually originating in the eyelid. Over time, the spasms, or twitches, spread to other areas of the face including the cheekbones, lips and lower area. Researchers are still trying to determine the exact cause.

In most cases, eye twitches, or eyelid muscle spasms, are not serious and can be treated with simple lifestyle changes. In some cases, Botox injections can even be used to help with symptoms if they don’t seem to be getting better. For more information, call our office at Advanced Eyelid Surgery Center at 817-778-4444.