Common Causes and Treatments of Eye Twitching

Eye twitches are quite common for many people. In fact, almost everyone can experience a twitch in their eyes at some point in their lives.

Logic would dictate that the eye twitch is being caused by a nerve impairment. However, the exact cause of this condition is hard to determine. There are two categories that an eye twitch can fall into: eyelid myokymia, and benign essential blepharospasm (BEB). The treatments and causes can vary for both categories.

Although lifestyle and age are always common aspects when it comes to such conditions, there are also other factors that can lead to an eye twitch.

Eyelid Myokymia

The first and most common type of eye twitch goes by the clinical name of eyelid myokymia and only affects the lower eyelid.

This is a temporary condition that will come and go and only lasts for a second or two. There is no interference with the vision in the twitching eye, and typically no discomfort. It’s just an odd feeling when it does happen.

As it is a very common complaint and not a condition that you should be concerned over, there is no formal treatment required.

Benign Essential Blepharospasm

The second type of eye twitch is less common, and results from underlying conditions. Clinically, it is referred to as benign essential blepharospasm (BEB).

The twitching affects the upper eyelid. It is longer lasting, stronger, and can lead to partial or full obstruction in the vision of the affected eye for the duration of the twitch, or an involuntary eyelid contraction.

Sufferers of this condition will require treatment, some of which could be short-term. Typically, though, a long-term treatment option is required.

Common Causes of Eye Twitching

Eyelid myokymia is typically triggered by common factors such as the following:

• Lifestyle
• Lack of sleep
• Eye strain (such as working long hours at a computer)
• Stress
• Excessive amounts of caffeine
• Dry eyes
• Certain types of medication

Changes recommended by your healthcare team can help to reduce or eliminate twitching due to eyelid myokymia.

Regarding benign essential blepharospasm, the actual cause is unknown. It has been linked to some conditions that affect the basal ganglia, which is the area of the brain that controls muscle movement. However, it is also linked to conditions such as dry eyes, photophobia, light sensitivity, and other eye issues.

As well, in rarer cases like Parkinson’s, Tourette syndrome, and Bell’s palsy, this particular twitch is evident. Vitamin B12 deficiencies have also been reported in conjunction with this condition.

As there are so many factors that benign essential blepharospasm can be related to, the treatment can be harder to determine. However, your expert eye care team can advise on the best options available to you.

Treatments

Fortunately, there are things you can do at home to help reduce common eye twitching, such as getting more sleep, reducing caffeine intake, and using artificial tears to provide extra moisture and lubrication to the eye.

Taking regular eye breaks helps to reduce the strain they come under when working with computers. Thus, looking somewhere else and focusing on other things can reduce this pressure and stress, allowing the eyes to relax.

Other treatment options will depend on the severity of the condition, how much your vision is affected, and the underlying cause (if known).

Your doctor and health care team should perform regular medication reviews, and your eye care team should also be included in this process.

Introducing artificial tears or eye drops can help, and may often be used as the first line of treatment. Botox is a commonly used treatment as it works by affecting the nerves in the eyelid that are impacted by the twitching, preventing it from happening.

In severe cases, surgery will be discussed. If surgery is required, then this will involve removing some or all of the muscles and nerves in the eyelid that create the twitch. This surgery is referred to as myectomy.

LASIK eye surgery may also be considered, and your eye care team will discuss the pros and cons depending on your case and health history.

When should you consult your eye care team?

Any issue that affects your vision should not be left unattended for a long period of time, as this is when permanent damage can set in.

Dry eyes, discomfort, and light sensitivity are just a few things that you should monitor at home. If these issues persist for more than two days, make an appointment with your eye doctor.

When it comes to eye twitching, if it is only in the lower eyelid, and it happens very infrequently, then there is no need to worry.

However, if the eye twitch lasts for longer periods, causes the eyelid to close partially or fully, and comes with pain or discomfort, then making an appointment with your eye care specialist is recommended.

While the twitch may not result in damage to the eyeball, it can strain and negatively affect the eyelid, which is another vital part of your vision system.

Contact the Experts at Clearview Vision Institute

Clearview Vision Institute has been leading the way in eye care and treatments for many years and prides itself on innovative technologies to deliver the best care and improve the vision of thousands of Ontarians.

For any eye concerns, including eye dryness, vision loss, or corrective procedures, call us at 647-493-6371 or you can contact us online. Contact us today and let us restore your vision to its best today.