Eyelid twitching

Overview

Twitches come and go. Rarely, constant closing of both eyes (blepharospasm) needs treatment.

Most eyelid twitches are harmless muscle spasms that come and go over days or weeks.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Eyelid twitching

Less common

• Twitch in the lower lid

Look up a symptom: Eyelid twitching · Muscle twitching

When to get medical care

Causes

Stress, tiredness, caffeine, alcohol, and dry eyes.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Stress

Diagnosis

No tests are usually needed.

The exam

An eye check if it lasts.

Treatment

Easing triggers stops most twitches.

Self-care

• Sleep more
• Cut back on caffeine
• Use warm compresses
• Use artificial tears for dry eyes
• Try a few nights of extra sleep

Prevention

To prevent it:

• Sleep well
• Limit caffeine

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to an ophthalmologist (eye doctor and surgeon) or an optometrist.

Living with it

• Keep a simple diary of symptoms, triggers, and medicines to bring to visits.
• Bring a list of your medicines and questions to each visit.
• Ask about low-vision services, like magnifiers and brighter lighting.
• Wear sunglasses outdoors.
• Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can keep working or going to school.
• Ask about changes that help, like extra breaks or a flexible schedule. Workers may be covered by the ADA. Students may get a 504 plan.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Adults: Very common with stress.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Harmless; goes away.

Almost always goes away on its own.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• Could this be from dry eyes?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Eyelid twitching