Question
Sometimes my eyelids twitch for no apparent reason. Why does this occur?
Oh Don't panic. Almost everyone experiences squinting — an uncontrollable movement of the upper or lower eyelid — sooner or later. These minor muscle spasms are usually not painful, they usually go away on their very own. But after they do, it's often an indication of minor physical or mental stress. May include twitch triggers.
- I feel drained
- Caffeine consumption
- Feeling restless or irritable
- drinking alcohol
- smoking
- Looking at the intense lights.
Sometimes the results of stress pile up suddenly—like when a piece deadline makes you lose sleep—and bam, your eyelids dance to an inaudible drummer. If you're really nervous about it, you'll be able to often help calm the puffy eye with a warm compress, a superb night's sleep, or a stress-relieving activity like exercise. You can cut down on alcohol, quit smoking, and wear sunglasses if you're exposed to brilliant light.
Very rarely, eye twitching can indicate a condition reminiscent of Parkinson's disease, Bell's palsy, or multiple sclerosis. If one or each eyes close involuntarily with each spasm, or if other muscles in your face appear to be involved, see your doctor.
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