Eyelid twitching or twitching (also known as blepharospasm) can be quite annoying, uncomfortable, or even embarrassing. Twitching can be scary if you are experiencing it for the first time. Twitching of the eyelids occurs when the muscles contract a sign of being conscious (involuntary). This can be caused by a variety of things, such as tired eyes, fatigue, dry eyes, or excess levels of stimulants (such as coffee or drugs). Whatever the cause, don't panic. You have several options for how to stop twitching.
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Method 1 of 2: Stopping Twitching
Step 1. Start with a strong blink
Close your eyes as tightly as possible. Then open it as wide as possible. Repeat blinking like this until your eyes start to water. Stop immediately if you feel the pain or the twitching in your eye is getting worse.
Blinking quickly like this will even out the tear film. This can comfort the eyes because it moisturizes, gives the eyelids a chance to rest, stretches the eye and facial muscles, and improves blood circulation in the eyes
Step 2. Give a soothing massage to the eyes
Use your middle finger to gently massage the lower eyelid in a circular motion. Massage the twitching eyelid for about 30 seconds. To prevent irritation and eye infections, be sure to clean your hands and face first.
This method is useful because it can improve blood circulation while strengthening the eye muscles
Step 3. Flash for 30 seconds
Try to blink at the right frequency. You should also make sure to blink in a very gentle motion, like if your eyelashes were the wings of a butterfly. The blinking process is very important for your eyes. Blinking relaxes most of the eye muscles, as well as lubricates and cleans the eyeball, which can stop the twitching. Stop immediately if you feel the pain or twitching in the eye is getting stronger.
Step 4. Close half of your eyelids
You will feel the upper eyelids of your eyes vibrate irregularly. Try to stop the vibration in your eyelids.
By squinting and sharpening your vision like this, you can reduce the pressure on your eyes. This may be helpful for relieving twitching caused by tired eyes
Step 5. Practice keeping your eyes closed
Close your eyes for 1 minute. During that time, close your eyelids and then release them, without opening your eyes. Repeat three times before opening your eyes.
This movement can lubricate the eye by increasing the production of tears. In addition to reducing twitching, you can use this movement to maintain eye muscle strength
Step 6. Perform acupressure massage on the eyes
Use the image above to determine the acupressure points around your eyes. Massage one point in circular motions for 5-10 minutes before massaging the next point. Once you're done massaging everything, start over again. Continue massaging for about 2 minutes.
- A similar acupressure technique as above can be done by placing your index and middle fingers on your eyebrows. Gently press then twist at the corner of the eye socket for five minutes.
- Acupressure techniques can eliminate twitches by increasing blood circulation in the eye, while closed eyes allow the tear film to lubricate the eye.
- To prevent irritation or infection, make sure that your hands and face are clean first.
Step 7. Try the eye hydrotherapy technique
Alternately splash cold and warm water over your closed eyes. Cold water will constrict blood vessels, while warm water will widen them. This will help improve circulation and blood flow to the eye, which can help eliminate the twitch.
You can also apply ice cubes to your eyelids before sprinkling warm water, instead of alternately sprinkling warm and cold water. Repeat this step 7-8 times
Method 2 of 2: Addressing Possible Causes of Twitch
Step 1. Limit your intake of caffeine and other stimulants
Excessive consumption of coffee, soda, or even stimulant drugs can cause eye twitching. Try reducing your intake. However, consult your doctor first before changing the dose of your prescription medication.
Step 2. Meet the body's fluid needs
Dehydration can cause eye twitching. Try to increase your fluid intake. Try to drink 8-10 glasses of water every day.
Step 3. Increase your sleep time
General fatigue can cause your eyes to become tired and dry, making them twitch more often. Try to get a full 7-8 hours of sleep every night. Also, limit the use of electronic screens such as TV, mobile devices, and computers before bed.
Step 4. Visit an ophthalmologist
Any of these symptoms may indicate a more serious problem and should be seen by an ophthalmologist:
- Twitch for more than 1 week.
- Twitch that makes your eyelids close
- Twitch in other facial muscles
- Eyes that are red, swollen, or have discharge
- Drooping upper eyelid
- Twitch accompanied by headache or double vision
- If your doctor suspects that a nerve or brain disorder is causing the twitching (such as Parkinson's disease or Tourette's syndrome), he or she will examine your body for other symptoms. Your ophthalmologist may refer you to a neurologist or other specialist.
- Be sure to tell your supplements, medications you are taking, and any diet or exercise you are following when you see your doctor.
Step 5. Talk about supplements
Your doctor may check your body's levels of vitamins, minerals and electrolytes, as a lack of certain substances (such as calcium) can cause twitching. Based on the results of the examination, the doctor may prescribe certain supplements.
Step 6. Talk about your treatment options
If you have chronic but benign twitching, your doctor may offer several treatment options. Treatment with botulinum toxin (Botox™ or Xeomin) is the most commonly recommended treatment. For mild cases of twitching, your doctor may suggest medications such as clonazepam, lorazepam, trihexylphenidyl, or other muscle relaxants.