Eye twitching (eyelid twitching) is a common symptom, which in most cases has harmless causes. For example, stress or a deficiency of magnesium are possible causes. In rare cases, however, the twitching can also be due to a serious cause such as a tumor. We inform you in detail about different causes of nervous eye twitching and reveal what you can do against it.
Why the eye twitches
When the eye twitches, a wide variety of causes can be behind this symptom. The movement itself is caused by the muscles in the eyelid contracting. The twitching is often perceived as annoying, but it is usually harmless – even once it lasts for several hours. Nervous twitches occur more frequently, but in many parts of the body we do not notice them at all. However, since the muscles at the eye are located directly under the skin, we become particularly aware of them here. Recognize eye diseases: These pictures help!
Causes of eye twitching
Why the muscles of the eye twitch varies. The following are some of the possible causes:
- Stress
- Eye fatigue
- Magnesium deficiency
- Neurological diseases
- Eye infections
Eye twitching can occur in both the right and left eye. Usually only one side is affected at a time.
Nervous eye twitching – What to do?
If you do not suffer from a twitching eye constantly, but only from time to time, a visit to the doctor is usually not necessary. In most cases, it is then a nervous eye twitch caused by stress or an irritated eye nerve. If you suspect physical or psychological stress as a trigger, you should try to calm down a bit. Do some relaxation exercises, listen to music, or get together with some friends in a cozy setting. A small massage can also have a relaxing effect on the eyelid: close your eyes and gently massage the eyelid with your fingers. If the stress subsides, the eye twitching usually disappears all by itself.
What helps with overtired eyes?
In addition to stress, overtired eye muscles can also cause nervous eye twitching. In most cases, an overworked eyelid elevator or eye ring muscle is the cause of the discomfort. Overloading of the eye can be caused, for example, by a job that involves spending a lot of time in front of a computer. In such a case, it is advisable to refrain from using the computer, television and smartphone at least once after work. Instead, do sports, listen to music or meet up with friends. At work, you can prevent eye strain by taking regular breaks to look out the window instead of at the screen. Also, try not to stare too much at the screen, but blink more often. 5 Facts About Eye Twitching – iStock.com/SanneBerg
Too little magnesium as a cause
When the eye twitches, a lack of magnesium may also be behind the twitch. The deficiency negatively affects communication between the nerve and muscle, which can cause the eye to twitch. On the one hand, a magnesium deficiency can be caused by an insufficient intake of magnesium. This can be the case, for example, with an unhealthy or very one-sided diet (diet). On the other hand, a deficiency can also be triggered by an increased release of magnesium. There is an increased requirement during pregnancy, for example, or during regular exercise or particularly stressful phases of life. Other possible causes include diabetes, celiac disease, chronic kidney disease and alcoholism. If you suspect that a disturbance in the mineral balance is responsible for eye twitching, make sure above all that you consume sufficient magnesium. Foods rich in magnesium include sunflower seeds, nuts, oatmeal, beans and spinach. You may also be able to turn to supplements.
See a doctor if you have constant eye twitching
If the symptoms persist for weeks and you suffer from constant eye twitching, you should see a doctor so that he can determine the cause of the eye twitching. First, it is best to see an ophthalmologist. He can check whether there is an infection or a defective vision. Even a slight defect in vision, for example, can lead to ocular muscle strain.As a result, twitching often begins. In addition to an ophthalmologist, a neurologist is also a suitable contact. He can rule out more serious causes such as damage to nerves, a malfunction in the brain or a tumor. However, such a cause is extremely rare. 12 Home remedies for dry eyes