What is eye twitching?
Eye twitching is a condition that can cause your eyelids to move involuntarily. It’s often visible to other people and may feel embarrassing or bothersome to you. Finding the root cause of eye twitching and reducing its symptoms is possible with the help of Dr. Williams.
What causes eye twitching?
The cause of eye twitching isn’t always known, but certain medical conditions may be the culprit. Examples include eyelid myokymia or blepharospasm, a condition in your nervous system that causes involuntary blinking and closing of your eyes.
Hemifacial spasms can cause muscle contractions on the side of your face, including your eyelids. Other potential reasons for twitching include eye inflammation, light sensitivity, eye injuries, or brain and nervous system disorders.
What are the risk factors for eye twitching?
Common risk factors for eye twitching include:
- Family history of eye twitching
- Personal history of twitching
- Lack of sleep
- Excessive stress
- Too much caffeine
- Eye irritation
- Eye dryness
Adopting healthy habits, including sleeping enough and controlling stress, is one of the best ways to lower your risk of eye twitching.
How does my doctor diagnose the cause of eye twitching?
To diagnose eye twitching and determine its underlying cause, Dr. Williams reviews your symptoms and discusses your medical history. She examines your eyes and lids using a special light and could recommend imaging procedures in some cases before personalizing a treatment that matches your needs.
What are the treatments for eye twitching?
Common treatments for eye twitching, depending on the type of twitching your experience and its severity, include:
Lifestyle changes
Making a few lifestyle changes may improve eye twitching symptoms. Examples include reducing stress, getting more sleep, and drinking less caffeine.
Tinted glasses
If your eyes are sensitive to light, wearing tinted glasses may help reduce eye twitching.
Eye drops
Using eyedrops to prevent dry eyes is another way to lower your risk of eye twitching.
Botox®
Botox injections weaken muscles responsible for eye twitching, which can reduce unpleasant symptoms.
Medications
Taking oral medications can sometimes eliminate eye twitching, depending on its cause.
Eyelid surgery
Dr. Williams offers eyelid surgery to remove part of the muscles responsible for twitching when other treatments don’t work.
If you’re tired of eye twitching and want relief, schedule a consultation with Chicago Oculofacial Consultants or book an appointment online today.
