Why eyes twitch

An eye twitch or more accurately an eyelid twitch is an uncontrollable eyelid spasm. Most eye twitching lasts only a few minutes, but sometimes an eyelid twitch can persist for days or longer.

When your eyelid is twitching, you might think everyone else can see it. But most eye twitches are subtle and are not easily seen by others.

The medical term for eye twitching is myokymia. Sometimes, making minor changes to your diet and lifestyle can significantly reduce your risk of eye twitching or help make an eyelid twitch disappear. Stress is probably the most common cause of eye twitching. Yoga, breathing exercises, spending time with friends or pets and getting more down time into your schedule are ways to reduce stress that may be causing your eyelid twitch.

Lack of sleep, whether because of stress or some other reason, can trigger eye twitching. Catching up on your sleep and having a consistent sleep schedule can help. Eye strain — particularly digital eye strain from overuse of computers, tablets and smartphones — also is a common cause of eyelid twitching. Are you feeling stressed or anxious?

Have you spent significant time in front of a computer? Try to reduce your source of stress, catch up on sleep, and take breaks from your computer monitor to rest your eyes. Be sure to reduce your caffeine consumption as well sorry, coffee lovers.

The doctor will examine your eyes and consult with you to determine a course of resolve. This article was reviewed by Dr. Jennifer Tsai, OD. Tsai practices In New York City. Information received through VSP Vision Care channels is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your eye doctor, physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Members Members. Eyewear and Wellness. Ask an Eye Doctor. Why is My Eye Twitching? Causes of Eye Twitching Most people will develop some type of minor eyelid twitch in their lifetime, as there are a variety of external factors that can account for twitching eyes. Twitches can affect any part of the body. Twitches in the eyes or legs are particularly common.

Some possible causes of a twitch that does not go away or happens with other symptoms include:. Page last reviewed: 05 February Next review due: 05 February Twitching eyes and muscles.