18 Causes of Eyelid Twitching

When your eyelids suddenly start to pulsate or close shut out of nowhere, and the movement is something that is out of your control, it can be very troubling. Also known as eyelid spasms, this involuntary movement can be annoying, and it can be downright perplexing. When you experience twitching in your eyelid, you can’t help but wonder if something is wrong with you.

What exactly is an eyelid twitch? It is a condition that is marked causes a repetitive movement or spasm in the muscles of the eyelid. It usually affects the upper eyelid, though it can affect the lower lid, as well. In most cases, eyelid twitching is slight and can cause a slight tugging sensation in the eyelid. Some people experience twitching that is powerful enough to force the eyelids to close completely.

When eyelid twitching sets in, it usually happens every few seconds for about a minute or two. You cannot control the movement and you cannot predict when it will occur. It can happen several times a day for several days in a row, and it can suddenly stop on its own. Eyelid twitching generally does not cause any pain and it does not affect the vision; however, it can be bothersome to feel your eyelid pulsating. In the majority of cases, twitching eyelids do not require medical attention and will clear up on their own. In rare cases, though, eyelid twitching can be a sign of an underlying health condition, such as a movement disorder, particularly if other involuntary movements within the face occur along with the twitching.

What causes an eyelid twitch? Believe it or not, there are actually several factors that can lead to involuntary spasms in the lids of the eyes. Here’s a look at 18 of the most common causes of this annoying condition.

1. Stress

It comes as no surprise that stress affects the body in many different ways, but you may be surprised to learn that a twitching eyelid can be caused by stress. In fact, in many people, an eyelid twitch is the result of stress. If you are under a lot of stress and have developed a spasm in your eyelid, try combating your stress levels by practicing yoga, doing deep breathing exercises, or doing something that you really enjoy. You should also try to prevent stress from developing by slowing down some. When you have a lot on your plate, it’s easy to become over-stressed, which can cause your eyelid to start twitching.