We have all suffered at one time or another from an annoying eye twitch. It is an involuntary movement of the eyelid, as well as intermittent, which can last minutes, hours or even days.
When it manifests itself in a pronounced manner, it can become a blepharospasm, related to the compression of a facial nerve or trauma. This occurs when the muscles that regulate its opening and closing contract repetitively and involuntarily.
What causes tics in the eye?
Normally tics occur in only one eye, are not very intense and have an irregular duration. Although they are very annoying, they are not usually related to other problems and are not usually a symptom of any disease.
Nevertheless, the most common causes of tics in the eyes are usually:
- Caffeine and alcohol. Several studies have shown that caffeine and alcohol, including energy drinks, sodas, tea or coffee, can aggravate the symptoms of eye twitching.
- Tiredness. When there is lack of sleep tics in the eye usually manifest themselves. A way to avoid them, therefore, is to return to a habitual sleep routine.
- Tired eyes. The continuous use of computers, smartphones or tablets, the need to change contact lenses or glasses can be key factors of eyestrain.
- Stress. Each person reacts differently to stress, and an eye twitch can be one more manifestation. It may also be related to eyestrain.
- Dry eye. Spending many hours in front of the computer, aging, the use of contact lenses that are not compatible with one’s eyes, the use of antihistamines or antidepressants, as well as caffeinated beverages, are factors related to dry eyes and, as a consequence, to the appearance of tics.
- Nutritional imbalances. The lack of nutrients can be a key piece in the organism. If we have a deficit of magnesium, for example, it can favor that tics appear in the eyes.
- Allergies. The allergies produce itching in the eyes and, when scratching, histamines are released in the tissue of the eyelid and the lacrimal that can produce tics in the eyes.
How can eye twitching be avoided?
Eye twitching usually goes away on its own, so no specific treatment is usually necessary or recommended. However, the specialists in Ophthalmology recommend:
- Reduce stress and situations that cause anxiety and nervousness, which in turn is beneficial for the proper functioning of the whole body.
- Rest properly, not only to avoid the effects of visual fatigue but also to rest in general, mentally and physically.
- Do not drink caffeine, or reduce its consumption. In an excitant that can trigger eye twitches.
- Sleep more, but also better. To sleep a minimum of 8 hours and to do it well (for example, not having taken alcohol before) is essential for the mental and physical balance, avoiding the appearance of tics.
- Use artificial tears. The eyes badly hydrated or little lubricated are more prone to suffer tics. The specialist in Ophthalmology will recommend the best tears or eye drops for each patient.
Although tics usually disappear on their own and do not necessarily have to be related to other ocular or neuronal pathologies, if it does not disappear after a few days, if it becomes more intense or extends to other areas, it is important to see a specialist.