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Involuntary muscle spasms can be truly annoying. Especially if this occurs in your eye area or eyelid. Eyelid twitching, also known as a myokymia, is basically an involuntary muscle spasm that occurs mostly in the lower eyelid. Annoying maybe an understatement depending upon the severity and we here at HPFY might be able to help you find a treatment you can try at home to get it under control.
Muscle spasms can occur anywhere on our bodies, but what can cause the involuntary muscle spasming and twitching of our lower eyelids? The exact cause of your eye twitching can vary and the severity of the twitches can determine what course of action you should take. Minor twitches can be caused by:
Minor twitches can be stopped or minimized with simple, everyday lifestyle changes or easy at-home exercises. For twitches that last longer or are more severe, a visit to the neuro-ophthalmologist might be a good idea. These eye twitches can last several weeks and may be associated with blepharospasm, which can be caused by a nerve impulse.
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Your eye twitch severity can determine your course of action. Symptoms of a minor eye twitch can include an uncontrollable eyelid spasm that may last up to 2-3 days. These usually resolve themselves on their own. When the twitch becomes more severe that the eye completely opens and closes, your eye may last much longer and not go away on its own. This can become severely annoying and even interfere with your daily life. If your eye twitches for longer than a few days, it is recommended you see your eye doctor. To treat a minor eye twitch, you can:
Other techniques you can use at home include hard blinking which can evenly spread tears and stretch the eye and facial muscles. The “droopy lid technique” involves closing your eyes halfway to strengthen eyelid muscles and lubricate the eye. Another option is the eye squeezing technique which involves closing your eyes and then squeezing them real tight, then release without opening. You could also try increasing magnesium in your diet, as well as potassium to minimize spasming and twitching.
Treatment for eye twitches that are more severe should be directed by your eye doctor or ophthalmologist. These treatments can include Botox, muscle relaxers, and even surgery in some more severe cases. Most eye twitches are temporary and will clear up on their own, but these options may allow you to minimize their annoying effects on your everyday life.
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