Twitching of the thumb

Definition

Muscle twitches are not deliberate, sudden contractions of the muscles. They can also possibly trigger a movement effect, i.e. a thumb movement. The twitching can occur at different intensities and can basically affect almost all muscle groups of the body, including the thumb, for example.

Often the eyelids or calves are also affected. Only slight twitching or trembling movements that can be felt under the skin are called fasciculations. If the twitching is repeated rhythmically, it can also be called tremor. Thumb twitching can be permanent (chronic) or intermittent. In the case of harmless causes, these symptoms usually disappear after a few days.

Causes

The muscles of the thumb are supplied by various nerves. If these are stimulated or damaged, this can lead to muscle twitches. Mostly, especially small twitches have rather harmless causes.

One possible cause is malnutrition, for example an undersupply of minerals such as magnesium. Psychological problems such as anxiety or stress can also trigger the twitching. In addition, the consumption of stimulants such as caffeine can promote the twitching.

Hypoglycaemia and high fever can also cause (thumb) twitches. Physical strain and overloading of the thumb can manifest itself as a twitch. Muscle twitching has also been observed as a side effect of drugs, including psychotropic drugs, antiarrhythmic drugs and drugs used in cancer therapy (cytostatics, immunosuppressants).

Other diseases such as thyroid dysfunction can also be causative. Thumb twitching is rarely caused by diseases of the nervous system. For example, this can be a Parkinson’s syndrome, especially when a rhythmic tremor occurs. A further cause is ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), a progressive disease of the nervous system and the entire musculature. Multiple sclerosis must also be taken into consideration.

Associated symptoms

Usually the muscle twitching is painless, but occasionally it is accompanied by painful muscle cramps. This is then referred to as pain-fasculation syndrome. Sometimes additional sensory disturbances such as a tingling or burning sensation occur.

Under exertion, the muscle twitching can become stronger. Another typical site for muscle twitching is the eyelid, where eyelid twitching often occurs as a physical reaction to stress. If a systemic disease is the underlying cause, the other symptoms of this disease can of course also occur, such as slowing down movement in Parkinson’s disease.