Eye twitching

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    • Brief

    • Eye twitching is when your upper eyelids, lower eyelids or both start to squeeze continuously and uncontrollably. It may feel as if someone is pulling at your eyelids. This may last from a few seconds up to a few minutes and it can van happen on and off for several days.

      This symptom can affect one or both eyes, but it is usually mild and goes away without treatment.

    • What are the causes?

    • Your eyes can twitch if you:

      • Are not getting enough sleep, especially when you are overtired or haven't slept in a while.
      • Have an underlying illness, like an eye infection, eye injury or dry eyes.
      • Rub your eyes frequently from allergies or as a habit.
      • Stare at computer screens or bright light for long periods.
      • Have migraines due to stress.
      • Use medications for parkinson's disease.

    • When to visit a doctor?

      • If your eye does not stop twitching within one or two weeks.
      • If your face starts to twitch or droop downwards.
      • If you begin to have pain, swelling or discharge from your eye(s).
      • If your vision becomes blurry.
      • If you cannot open your eyes well.
      • If your eyes become too sensitive to light.

    • How to prevent?

    • Some things you can do to prevent your eye from twitching are:

      • Get at least 6 hours of sleep at night.
      • Reduce the amounts of caffeine and alcohol that you consume.
      • Try to stop smoking tobacco.

    • How to manage and treat?

    • Self-care tips:

      • Take time to rest from stressful situations.
      • Stop looking at screens at least 30 minutes before you sleep.
      • Apply a warm wet cloth over your twitching eye.
      • Reduce your caffeine intake from coffee or energy drinks.
      • Use over-the-counter eye drops.

      Treatment options:

      If your eye does not stop twitching, your healthcare provider may recommend treatment, including;

      • Medications to relax your eye muscles.
      • Antibiotics to treat an infection.
      • Surgery to correct any defects or remove some muscles.

    • Kulawa cares

    • Although your eye twitching may be painless, it may be uncomfortable. In most cases it will stop on its own without treatment.

      If the symptom began after you started or stopped using a medication, speak with your healthcare provider immediately.