How serious can an eye twitch be?

Eye twitches, also known as myokymia, are usually harmless and go away on their own within a few days or weeks. However, in some cases, they can be a sign of a more serious underlying condition, especially if they are accompanied by other symptoms such as:

- Changes in vision, such as blurred vision or double vision

- Pain in the eye or around the eye

- Eyelid drooping

- Swelling around the eye

- Sensitivity to light

- Headache

If you experience any of these symptoms along with an eye twitch, it's important to see an eye doctor (ophthalmologist) for evaluation.

Some of the more serious conditions that can cause eye twitches include:

- Blepharitis: Inflammation of the eyelid

- Conjunctivitis: Inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear membrane that covers the white part of the eye

- Dry eye syndrome: A condition in which the eyes do not produce enough tears

- Allergies: Allergies can cause eye irritation and inflammation, which can lead to eye twitches

- Thyroid problems: Hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid, can cause eye twitches

- Neurological conditions: Certain neurological conditions, such as Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis, can cause eye twitches

- Medications: Some medications, such as antihistamines and decongestants, can cause eye twitches as a side effect

In most cases, eye twitches are a harmless and temporary annoyance. However, if you experience any of the symptoms listed above, it's important to see an eye doctor to rule out any underlying conditions.