Why does the eyelid tremble and how to avoid it

The spasm or tremor of the eyelid is a repetitive, sporadic, and involuntary movement.

Although it is a benign and very common condition among the population, for many it can be annoying. Let’s see what its main causes are and how to avoid them.

It is commonly called eyelid tremor, but this condition can be myokymia or blepharospasm. This is an involuntary and repetitive contraction of the orbicularis muscle, that is, the one that surrounds the eye.

There are usually three forms of eyelid tremor or blepharospasm:

• Benign essential blepharospasm: it is an alteration that normally affects both eyes, causing involuntary, intense, and chronic closures.
• Hemifacial spasm: This is a disorder that occurs only in the muscles on one side of the face.
• Minor eyelid spasm, twitching, or tic: This is a slight twitching of the eyelid. It rarely requires treatment and usually resolves spontaneously.

Those who suffer from these types of contractions report that they are usually mild and feel like a gentle tug on the eyelid. This can happen every few seconds for a couple of minutes.

In turn, the appearance of these episodes is unpredictable, since they can be constant throughout the day, as well as disappear for weeks or months.

Most cases of eyelid tremors resolve without the need for treatment and are rarely a warning sign of a chronic movement disorder or health problem.

Why does the eyelid tremble?

Because eyelid tremor is rarely a sign of a serious problem, its causes are often not investigated and are expected to go away on their own.

However, there are records of certain factors that are linked to its appearance:

• Blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelid).
• Conjunctivitis.
• Excessive consumption of alcohol, caffeine, or tobacco.
• Eyelid distention.
• Side effects of certain medications, especially antihistamines or antidepressants.
• Stress.
• Exposure to environmental irritants, such as sunlight or artificial light, dirt, or wind.
• Lack of sleep.
• Fatigue.
• eye irritation
• Dry eyes.
• scratches
• Light sensitivity.
• Physical overexertion.

Involuntary blinking can also be linked to:

• Alterations in the central nervous system.
• Concussion.
• dystonia
• Multiple sclerosis.
• Parkinson’s disease.
• Bell’s palsy (facial palsy).
• Meige syndrome
• Tourette syndrome.

Although it is usually a benign condition, it can last or worsen over time, causing facial twitching, sensitivity to light, and blurred vision.

How to avoid tremors in the eyelid?

Although the involuntary blinking usually disappears over time, if it persists it can be very annoying, and professional help will be required.

Treatment will depend on what caused the eyelid tremor or spasm. A doctor can make a diagnosis and advise different options:

• Drink less caffeine: be it coffee, tea, or energy drinks.
• Get enough sleep and regularize your sleep schedules.
• Keep the surfaces of your eyes lubricated with artificial tears or over-the-counter or prescription eye drops.
• Receive botulinum toxin (Botox) injections. They are often used to treat benign essential blepharospasm, although as the effects of the injection wear off, you may need more applications.
• Reduce the consumption of alcohol and tobacco.
• Use warm compresses on the eyes when tremors occur.
• Wear sunglasses to be outside. This helps minimize light sensitivity.

For severe cases, surgery may be used to remove some of the muscles and nerves in the eyelids.

When to see a doctor?

Eyelid tremors are rarely severe enough to require emergency medical treatment.

However, if the involuntary blinking is accompanied by the following symptoms, you should consult a health professional as soon as possible:

• The eyelid closes completely when the tremor occurs.
• The upper eyelid droops.
• The tremors or spasms continue for several weeks.
• Tremors or spasms begin to affect other parts of the face.
• Eyes are red, swollen, or have unusual discharge.

Sources consulted: American Academy of Ophthalmology, US National Library of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, National Eye Institute.