Health
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What are the Most Common Causes of an Eye Twitch?

Anna T.
Anna T.

An eye twitch is normally not caused by anything specific and is something that most people experience at some time or another in their lives. There is evidence to suggest that eye twitches might become more frequent if a person has had an excess amount of caffeine, alcohol, or is suffering from a lack of sleep. Blepharospasm is a disorder affecting a small number of the population that may cause uncontrollable eye twitches along with dry eyes and sensitivity to light. Very rarely, an eye twitch might indicate more serious problems such as disorders of the brain or nerves.

For the majority of people, the occasional eye twitch might be slightly annoying but is probably nothing to worry about. A person who is experiencing an eye twitch might want to think about her recent activities to see what may have caused it. Some people have eye twitches that coincide with drinking coffee or alcohol. Research also indicates that smoking might contribute to a higher frequency of eye twitches. People who are under a lot of stress or are not getting adequate amounts of sleep at night may additionally experience problems with twitching eyes.

Frequent caffeine and alcohol use may be connected to eye twitching.
Frequent caffeine and alcohol use may be connected to eye twitching.

People who have blepharospasm have problems with the muscles around their eyes moving uncontrollably, resulting in frequent eye twitches. The cause of blepharospasm is not known, but most doctors agree that it is not a serious problem. People who suffer from blepharospasm might have continual problems with twitching eyes, or they might only notice eye twitches occasionally. For some people, blepharospasm may go away for months at a time before returning. People who have blepharospasm normally complain of eye dryness in addition to eye twitching, and in some cases the twitching is so severe that the eyelids will close completely.

An eyelid spasm causes involuntary twitching.
An eyelid spasm causes involuntary twitching.

Even though an eye twitch is usually not a sign of any serious problem, a doctor's visit may be necessary if the twitching continues for two to three weeks without stopping. It is also cause for concern when other parts of a person's face are twitching along with the eyes. Brain and nerve disorders, such as Bell's palsy, Parkinson's, or dystonia might be to blame when eye twitching is chronic and happens along with facial twitching. Frequent eye twitching may actually be the result of blepharospasm rather than a problem with the brain or nerves, but only a doctor can make a firm diagnosis of any disorder.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Frequent caffeine and alcohol use may be connected to eye twitching.
      Frequent caffeine and alcohol use may be connected to eye twitching.
    • An eyelid spasm causes involuntary twitching.
      By: Delphimages
      An eyelid spasm causes involuntary twitching.
    • Lack of sleep may cause eye twitching.
      By: ia_64
      Lack of sleep may cause eye twitching.
    • Drinking coffee and smoking have both been shown to contribute to eye twitching.
      By: Lorenzo Brasco
      Drinking coffee and smoking have both been shown to contribute to eye twitching.