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When I'm tired it's not uncommon for my right eye to do it's own dance, but I have had it go off when the disco hours are long over like in meetings mid - afternoon for example. Eye twitches, tics and spasms are actually common. They can come and go, but can hang around for weeks or even months. It's unlikely that there is one main cause of 'myokymia' but it can be triggered by:
- Eye Strain
- Tiredness
- Stress
- Caffeine
- Dry Eyes
- Alcohol
- Nutritional imbalances
- Allergies
Nearly all sudden-onset eyelid twitching is benign so is not a danger to someones eyesight long term. As with any behaviour though, that is not normal for you, it is always recommended that eyes are examined by an optician to rule out any medical conditions. However myokymia can be difficult to treat. To make the twitch stop, it is best to figure out the cause and deal with it. Neurological conditions such as hemifacial spasm and blepharospasm can be a cause of serious eyelid twitches, they are not common disorders and need to be diagnosed and treated by an optician.
Looking at the reasons why
Eye twitching is a common reaction to stress, especially when it is related to vision problems such as eye strain. Take steps to reduce your levels of stress to ease this symptom.
Poor sleep, is another trigger for eyelid spasms. It is recommended that eight hours of a sleep a night will rest you.
Vision-related stress or eye strain can occur e.g. if you need glasses or to change your prescription. Your eyes may be trying to overwork triggering eyelid twitching. Vision-related stress is common for PC or smartphone users.
Do you really need that extra cup of coffee? A high number of experts believe that too much caffeine (or alcohol) can be a trigger for eye twitches. Cut back or cut out if you can for other health benefits.
Ageing brings with it dry eyes. Dry eyes also effects computer users, patients who take certain medications (antihistamines, antidepressants), contact lens wearers and people who drink alcohol or have high intakes of caffeine based drinks. Not forgetting the tiredness and stress factors that we all suffer from at some points these also contribute to dry eyes.
There are plenty of medications and treatments available for dry eye.
There are reports that a lack of certain nutritional substances, such as magnesium, can also trigger eyelid spasms. While there may be no specific medical evidence to support this as a cause it is always wise to eat a balanced diet or take supplements were you are lacking in nutrients or vitamins for all round health.
Eye allergies can make you itch or have swelling and watery eyes. Rubbing them causes the body to release histamine into the eye lid tissues and the tears. Significant, as there is evidence that indicates histamine as being a cause of eyelid twitching.
Drops or tablets can assist with some eyelid twitches. However antihistamines can also aggravate a dry eye condition. Medical advice should always be sought.