Your eyes are twitching and you cannot seem to stop? You are not alone. All of us experience twitchy eyes from time to time. Eye twitching or Myokymia is the involuntary contraction of the muscles in an eyelid. Also called eye spasms and eyelid tics, this annoying distraction is usually a sign that you are not taking care of your eyes. It is usually benign and gets better in a few weeks.
If the underlying causes of eye twitching are rectified, it is not likely to cause any harm to your eyesight. However, if you have recurring twitching that stays with you more than a couple of weeks, it is better to get them checked as it can be a symptom of a nervous disorders like Bell’s palsy, Dystonia, Multiple Sclerosis and Tourette syndrome. Most of the times, twitching is harmless and if you are aware of the triggers you can avoid this bothersome tick.
Following are the 4 most notable reasons your eyes might twitch.
Stress and Fatigue
If you find your eyes twitching non-stop for days, it is a telltale sign that you are overstressing and failing to take adequate rest. Stress adversely influences all of your bodily functions. It can release hormones that may lead to muscle arousal. Your eyelids muscles might start acting out. Similarly, if you have been working late hours and neglecting your sleep your body parts may not be getting the rest they need to recuperate. So, if you are experiencing eye twitching, slow down, spend some time with your friends and family and get the recommended 7 to 8 hours of sleep. Your twitch will magically disappear.
Eye Strain
If your eyes are being strained due to overwork or bad lighting, they may start to twitch. Eyestrain may also be a result of not wearing your glasses or wearing the wrong glasses. Your eyesight keeps changing, so it is important to visit your eye doctor regularly and get the right glasses. One of the biggest reasons of eyestrain is spending too much time in front of screens. It can lead to dry eyes. When you have dry eyes, you involuntarily start blinking more to lubricate the eyes better. Excessive blinking may trigger your nerves and exacerbate twitching. It is important to give your eyes the rest they deserve.
Caffeine
Caffeine has its advantages; however, excessive intake of coffee can trigger eye spasms. Research has shown that caffeine may increase the release of serotonin and noradrenaline. These excitable stimulants may encourage the nerves surrounding your eyes to twitch. Coffee and tea have high levels of caffeine, so try to minimize your intake. Some pain relievers and sports drinks are also sources of caffeine, it is better to avoid them. Alcohol consumption and smoking may also trigger twitching of eyes.
Allergies
Various different kinds of allergies may cause discomfort to your eyes. Eye-allergies can trigger itching, swelling and watering of the eyes. In order to get an instant relief, most people rub their eyes. This releases histamine into the lid tissues and the tears. Histamines are known to cause eyelid twitching. Try not to rub your eyes. You can get antihistamine eye drops and tablets, which will help fight your allergies. Antihistamine eye drops can cause dryness so be sure to use them with moisturizing eye drops.
These are 4 of the most common reasons your eyes might twitch. To ensure good visual health, visit your optometrist.
