Eye spasms are uncontrolled movements of the eyelids. They are often described as feelings of twitching or fluttering. They often occur without warning. Eye spasms are generally not a cause of medical concern and go away on their own. However, in some cases, eye spasms may be a sign of an underlying medical issue. If the spasms occur frequently, impact your vision, are painful, or are very strong, it is important to seek medical attention. Many people wonder, what causes eye spasms?
What Causes Eye Spasms?
Eye spasms are often harmless. However, they can be a sign of an underlying issue. Eyelid spasms that are painful, frequent, strong, or impact your vision are not normal. Treatment is necessary to address the cause. Below are some of the common causes of eye spasms.
Sleep Issues
Getting enough sleep is essential for your physical and mental health. Most adults need roughly seven to nine hours of sleep each night. Without proper rest, your body can respond in various ways. Eye spasms can be caused by poor sleep or sleep deprivation. Your eye muscles are working all day, and rest is essential to ensure they function properly. Without proper sleep, they can become irritated or overused. Adjust your sleep habits to ensure you get enough good quality sleep. If your eye spasms persist after improving your sleep, it is time to contact a medical professional.
Mental Health Issues
Stress and anxiety can occur due to life changes. Short periods of stress or anxiety can come with other symptoms. In fact, stress is one of the common causes of eyelid spasms. Stress causes your nervous system to become more sensitive. This can trigger muscle twitches and eye spasms. Managing your stress is essential for your overall health. Exercise, good sleep, and meditation are common ways to improve your body’s balance during difficult times. If you experience eye spasms after implementing stress reduction techniques, contact an oculoplastic surgeon. They can determine the underlying issue and treat your eye spasms.
Eye Strain
Nowadays, people are looking at screens more than ever. Cell phones, TVs, laptops, and iPads have taken over daily life. Whether it is for work, school, or pleasure, screen time usage is astronomical as compared to a few decades ago. Looking at screens for too long can cause eye strain and dry eyes. When this occurs, your eye muscles can twitch. Reducing screen time and using artificial tears can help. However, if you experience eye spasms and your eyes feel dry, itchy, or irritated, it is time to contact a medical professional.
Caffeine Consumption
Caffeine can be really helpful if you need a boost to help you focus. However, excess caffeine can overstimulate your nervous system. Between lattes, coffees, soda, and energy drinks, caffeine can add up throughout the day. Caffeine is a stimulant that can affect muscle control. This includes the small muscles in the eyelids. The best course of action is to reduce your consumption. Taper off slowly if you consume a lot of caffeine to reduce the severity of the withdrawal symptoms. If you have gotten down to just one to two servings of caffeine each day and still experience eye spasms, consult with an oculoplastic surgeon.
Underlying Medical Issues Associated With Eye Spasms
Sometimes, eye spasms can be a sign of an underlying medical issue. Often, addressing the underlying issue can resolve the eye spasms.
Orbital Tumors
While rare, eye spasms can be caused by orbital tumors. These are growths that form behind or around the eye. They can affect one or both eyes. The growth can put pressure on the muscles or nerves surrounding the eye, leading to spasms. In many cases, orbital tumors require surgical removal to address the issue. Once removed, eye spasms generally do not occur.
Parkinson Disease
Parkinson’s disease affects movement and muscle control. While the condition is most commonly known for tremors and stiffness, some people experience eye twitching. The condition impacts changes in brain signals that control muscle movement. Early intervention for Parkinson’s disease is key. There are treatment options for eye spasms associated with the condition. Common treatments include surgery or injectable fillers. A skilled oculoplastic surgeon can create a customized treatment plan based on your unique needs.
Blepharospasm
Blepharospasm is a rare neurological condition that causes uncontrollable eye spasms. It often begins with persistent blinking and can worsen substantially. In severe cases, the eyes can close entirely. The exact cause of blepharospasm is unknown. However, it is related to signal issues in the area of the brain that controls muscle movement. It is not a major cause of medical concern, but it can impact your quality of life. Treatment involves injectable fillers, which have proven to be very effective. An oculoplastic surgeon can provide you with an accurate diagnosis and properly treat the issue.
When to See an Oculoplastic Surgeon
Many people downplay their medical issues for a variety of reasons. It may be due to time, medical insurance issues, or even a fear of going to the doctor. However, there are certain instances where you should seek medical attention from an oculoplastic surgeon.
Persistent Eye Spasms
If you experience persistent eye spasms, it is important to seek medical attention. Persistent eye spasms include spasms that last more than just a few days.
Worsens Over Time
Eye spasms that get worse over time are a cause for concern. Spasms that become more frequent or are accompanied by pain require treatment. Another indication treatment is necessary is if the spasms spread to other parts of the face or neck.
Issues Opening Your Eyes
Eye spasms that make it difficult to open the eye are not normal. Another indication you need treatment is if the eye spasms cause your eye to shut completely. This is a medical concern and can also impact your daily life.
Vision Changes
Anytime your vision changes, it requires medical attention. Eye spasms combined with vision changes can impact your daily life. A skilled professional can assess the changes and provide you with an effective treatment plan.
Oculoplastic Surgeon
If you experience eye spasms, contact the team at Taban MD Oculoplastic Surgery today to schedule a consultation!