Eye twitching, or myokymia, refers to the involuntary, repetitive spasms or small muscle contractions of the eyelid. These twitches typically occur in the upper lid but can affect the lower lid as well. Myokymia is usually harmless and temporary, though it can be irritating. It’s often linked to everyday triggers such as stress, fatigue, or eye strain, and typically resolves on its own without medical treatment.
Eye twitching is usually harmless, but seek medical attention if it persists beyond a few weeks, affects both eyes, or spreads to other areas of the face. These could signal a more serious neurological issue. If you experience twitching with redness, swelling, or discharge from the eye, or if it's accompanied by vision problems, a professional eye exam is necessary to rule out underlying conditions.
Relieving eye twitching can often be as simple as making lifestyle adjustments. Prioritize getting enough sleep, reduce screen time, stay hydrated, and cut back on caffeine. Applying a warm compress to the eye and practicing relaxation techniques can also help calm the muscles. Artificial tears or lubricating eye drops may soothe dry or irritated eyes, reducing the chance of twitching.
Stress and fatigue are two of the most common triggers for eye twitching. High levels of mental or physical stress can overstimulate your nervous system, leading to involuntary eyelid spasms. Similarly, lack of adequate rest prevents your eyes from properly recovering, increasing twitching episodes. Prioritizing relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and good sleep hygiene can significantly reduce symptoms.
Too much caffeine can overstimulate your nerves and muscles, making eye twitching more frequent. Similarly, extended screen time leads to eye strain and fatigue, which are major contributors to myokymia. Cutting down on coffee, tea, and energy drinks, while following the 20-20-20 rule (looking 20 feet away every 20 minutes for 20 seconds), can help prevent or reduce twitching.
