Twitchy Eye Syndrome

Twitchy eye syndrome, also referred to by the medical term blepharospasm, is an involuntary spasm or blinking of the eyelid. The disorder can range from annoying to causing a small disruption in vision because of the constant twitching or blinking.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of twitchy eye syndrome include a twitching or spasm of the upper eyelid or the lower eyelid, and in some cases both. The spasm may cause involuntary blinking that can disrupt vision. Twitching normally ceases when asleep and can begin again a few hours after awakening. You may also experience eye irritation.

Causes

• Causes for twitchy eye syndrome may include dry eyes, fatigue, stress, eye strain, corneal injury and neurological disorders. Eye twitching is fairly common and some people may notice it more when they are tired or during a stressful event.

Risk

• Your risk increases of acquiring twitchy eye syndrome if you work long hours looking at a computer screen, do not get adequate rest or sleep, and have emotional stress in your life. Living in a dry climate with low humidity may contribute to dry eyes and spasms in the eyelids.

Treatments

• Botox treatment involves injections of the botulinum toxin into the eyelids to paralyze the muscles of the eyelids. Myectomy is a surgical procedure that removes nerves and muscles from the eyelids and has improved symptoms in 75 to 85 percent of people, according to the National Institutes of Health. Other treatments your doctor may recommend include acupuncture, chiropractic therapy and hypnosis.

  Occasional eye twitching may be controlled by determining the underlying reason for the eyelid spasms. Talk to your doctor if you are under pressure or stressed, and he may prescribe medications that help with anxiety and in turn relieve the twitching.

Prevention/Solution

• Minor eye twitching may be resolved by getting enough sleep or by relaxing with soothing music or reading a book if you are stressed. Take breaks from the computer if eye strain is causing the spasms, and use eye drops for dry eyes. Ask your eye specialist for the best type of eye drops.