Blepharospasm
What is blepharospasm?
Blepharospasm, often referred to as benign essential blepharospasm, is characterized by involuntary blinking or other eyelid movements, such as twitching, that you cannot control.
Typically, eyelid twitching resolves on its own. However, individuals with benign essential blepharospasm may experience severe and persistent (long-lasting) eyelid twitching.
What are the symptoms of blepharospasm?
Blepharospasm generally begins with minor eyelid twitches that occur sporadically. As time progresses, the twitching may increase in frequency and lead to your eyes closing completely. This can hinder your ability to perform daily activities, such as reading or driving.
Additionally, some individuals may experience facial twitches (involuntary movements in other areas of the face).
If my eyelids twitch, do I have blepharospasm?
Not necessarily. Benign essential blepharospasm is uncommon, and various factors can lead to eyelid twitching, including stress, dry eyes, excessive caffeine intake, and insufficient sleep. In most cases, the twitching resolves without intervention.
Occasionally, eyelid twitching may occur as a symptom of other medical conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease, Meige syndrome, and Tourette syndrome. It can also be a side effect of certain medications.
Consult your eye doctor if:
Your eyelids continue to twitch for more than a few weeks
Your eyes completely close during the twitching episodes
Other areas of your face begin to twitch, such as the muscles on one side of your face
What causes blepharospasm?
Blepharospasm occurs when the brain region responsible for controlling your eyelid muscles malfunctions. In some instances, blepharospasm may run in families, and women between the ages of 40 and 60 are at a higher risk of developing this condition. However, in most cases, the exact cause remains unclear to medical professionals.
How will my eye doctor check for blepharospasm?
Your eye doctor can evaluate for blepharospasm during a thorough eye examination. They will also inquire about your medical history and any relevant family medical history.
What’s the treatment for blepharospasm?
While there is no definitive cure for blepharospasm, several treatment options can alleviate your symptoms.
Injections. Your eye doctor may administer a medication known as Botox into your eyelid muscles to help stop the twitching. Most patients require injections every 3 to 4 months.
Surgery. If injections prove ineffective, your doctor might suggest a surgical procedure called myectomy. During a myectomy, a surgeon removes some muscle or nerve tissue from your eyelids to help reduce the twitching.
Making lifestyle adjustments, such as managing stress, ensuring adequate sleep, and reducing the intake of caffeinated foods or beverages (like coffee, tea, or soda), may also provide relief.
If another underlying condition is contributing to your eyelid twitching, addressing that issue may alleviate the twitching. For instance, if you suffer from dry eyes, your doctor may recommend eye drops or medications to enhance tear production.