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At Healthfully, we strive to deliver objective content that is accurate and up-to-date. Our team periodically reviews articles in order to ensure content quality. The sources cited below consist of evidence from peer-reviewed journals, prominent medical organizations, academic associations, and government data.
- MayoClinic.com: Eye twitching
- National Eye Institute: Facts About Blepharospasm
- MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Eyelid twitch
The information contained on this site is for informational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for the advice of a professional health care provider. Please check with the appropriate physician regarding health questions and concerns. Although we strive to deliver accurate and up-to-date information, no guarantee to that effect is made.
What Causes Involuntary Eye Muscle Spasms?
Involuntary muscle spasm of the eyes is a relatively common condition that tends to occur without warning and causes no harm. Most people would describe the condition as a mild irritation that goes away within a few days. Occasionally, eye spasms are an indication of much more serious medical condition, especially if spasms are accompanied by other symptoms.
If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.
Mild Eye Spasms
It is not unusual for people to experience occasional eye spasms. Most often an eye spasm, or twitching of the eyelid, is related to lack of sleep, excess caffeine consumption, stress and irritation of the eye or eyelid 1. Minor eye spasms go away untreated and rarely require medical attention. People experiencing eye spasms can further relieve symptoms by getting more sleep, drinking less caffeine and using eye protection to avoid irritants.
- It is not unusual for people to experience occasional eye spasms.
- People experiencing eye spasms can further relieve symptoms by getting more sleep, drinking less caffeine and using eye protection to avoid irritants.
Blepharospasm
How to Stop Eye Twitching
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University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center defines blepharospasm as an involuntary contraction of one or both of the eyes 2. The chronic uncontrolled twitching of the eyelids is called benign essential blepharospasm. The exact cause of this condition is unknown; however, the National Eye Institute reports blepharospasm is associated with abnormal function of the basal ganglion, the part of the brain that coordinates movement 3. Blepharospasm is often the result of brain injury or neurological conditions.
Disorders of the Nervous System
While rare, eye spasms can be an indication of serious disorders of the brain and nervous system. According to the MayoClinic.com, eye spasms when present with other symptoms can be a sign of conditions such as Bell’s palsy, Parkinson’s disease and Tourette’s syndrome 1. People experiencing eye spasms that last longer than one week, or affect other parts of the face, should seek medical attention.
Related Articles
References
- MayoClinic.com: Eye twitching
- University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center: Eye Spasm, Eye Twitching, Eye Twitch: Definitions, Symptoms and Treatment
- National Eye Institute: Facts About Blepharospasm
- MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Eyelid twitch
- Blepharospasm. American Association of Neuromuscular & Electrodiagnostic Medicine.
- Benign essential blepharospasm - Genetics Home Reference - NIH. U.S. National Library of Medicine.
- Blepharospasm: what, symptoms, cause. Brain Mechanisms in Blepharospasm.
- Benign Essential Blepharospasm Information Page. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
- Benign Essential Blepharospasm. NORD (National Organization for Rare Disorders).
Writer Bio
Michael Bartlett has been writing since 1996 and brings expertise in fitness, nutrition, and wellness to his online articles. Bartlett is a certified health teacher and personal trainer in upstate New York. He holds a Bachelor of Science in health science from Cortland College and an Associate of Science in physical education from Hudson Valley Community College.