Contents:
- Medical Video: Hemifacial Spasm - Mayo Clinic
- What are the causes of eye twitching?
- 1. Myochemical Orbicularis
- 2. Blearospasm
- 3. Tourette's syndrome
- 4. Disorders of electrolyte levels
- So, is the eye twitch dangerous?
Medical Video: Hemifacial Spasm - Mayo Clinic
Have you ever experienced an eye twitch? Sometimes, twitching of your eyes can interfere with your daily activities because it is uncomfortable. Well, is this condition actually normal or not? Do I have to check with the doctor so the twitch stops? To answer this, first identify what are the common causes of eye twitching. See the full explanation in the article below.
What are the causes of eye twitching?
1. Myochemical Orbicularis
Orbikularis myokomia is a condition in which the eye twitches constantly and suddenly. Generally, twitching only occurs on one side of the eye and more often affects the lower eyelid area.
Twitching will not be too visible to others, but it will be disturbing by those who experience it. This type of twitch is not dangerous and usually disappears on its own. However, you can try to pull a bit of the twitching eyelid to reduce the symptoms of a felt twitch.
If this often happens, try to manage stress and reduce consumption of coffee and alcoholic beverages because this type of twitch is often compounded by these things.
2. Blearospasm
As with the myochemical orbicularis which usually only affects one side of the eye, blepharospasm often affects both eyes at once. The twitch of the eye that is felt is not accompanied by pain and more often affects the upper eyelid.
Generally the twitch will only take place in seconds to 1-2 minutes, so it does not endanger. However, if the twitch lasts longer (hours to weeks) or the twitches make your eyes perfectly closed, you need to have your eyes checked by a doctor to rule out possible eye infections, dry eye conditions, or other abnormalities in the facial nerve pathways. .
3. Tourette's syndrome
Different from the two types of causes of twitching above which can disappear by itself, twitching due to Tourette's syndrome cannot be stopped. You can only reduce symptoms.
Eye twitching has often been found at an early age which is not only related to twitching in the eye area, but also with other disorders. For example, movement or sudden pounding of limbs or voices that cannot be controlled.
This condition is associated with abnormalities in the nervous system that require further treatment by a neurologist.
4. Disorders of electrolyte levels
Electrolyte disturbances in the body can be electrolyte levels (sodium, potassium, magnesium, etc.) that are too high or too low.
Generally a decrease in potassium levels which causes weakness in the muscles of the limbs and also the appearance of twitching of the eye or twitching in small muscles in other body areas such as fingers. Reduced potassium levels in the body can occur in those of you who are diarrhea, vomiting, or have extensive burns.
Because of this, a thorough handling and examination is needed to overcome the twitch and also the perceived weakness of the muscles.
So, is the eye twitch dangerous?
Broadly speaking, a twitch in the eye area in a short time that is not accompanied by abnormalities in other body parts is a condition that does not endanger health.
However, twitching in the eye area accompanied by interference with other parts of the body requires special attention because it might be a danger sign. Do not delay to see your doctor if the eye twitching is disturbing or if you have certain concerns.
