Eye Twitching (Myokymia)

Eye twitching, also known as myokymia, is an involuntary, repetitive spasm of th muscles in the eyelid. These twitches are usually harmless and temporary but can be irritating or disruptive. Eye twitching typically affects the upper or lower eyelid and may last for a few seconds to several minutes. In some cases, it may persist intermittently over days or weeks. Although most instances of eye twitching resolve on their own, persistent or severe twitching may indicate an underlying neurological condition.

• Causes: Eye twitching is often caused by stress, fatigue, caffeine intake, or eye strain from prolonged screen time. Other contributing factors include dry eyes, irritation from contact lenses, or the use of certain medications. In rare cases, it can be linked to neurological disorders such as blepharospasm or hemifacial spasm.
• Symptoms: The primary symptom of eye twitching is a mild, uncontrollable spasm of the eyelid, which can occur sporadically or frequently. Although usually painless, the twitching may be accompanied by eye irritation or dryness.
• Treatment: Eye twitching usually resolves without treatment. Reducing stress, getting more sleep, limiting caffeine, and using lubricating eye drops may help alleviate symptoms. Persistent twitching that interferes with daily life may require medical attention, including Botox injections to relax the muscles or medications to address any underlying neurological issues.