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Eyelid Twitch
Alternate Names : Blepherospasm, Eye Twitch, Eyelid Spasm, Twitch - Eyelid
Definition
Blepharospasm is the medical term for when your eyelid muscles repeatedly and rhythmically contract. In some instances, the eyelid may repeatedly close (or nearly close) and re-open.
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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
The most common things that make the muscle in your eyelid twitch are fatigue, stress, and caffeine. Once spasms begin, they may continue off and on for a day to more than a week. Then, they disappear. Most people experience this type of eyelid twitch on occasion and find it very annoying. In most cases, you won't even notice when the twitch has stopped.
More severe contractions, where the eyelid completely closes, are possible. These can be caused by irritation of the surface of the eye (cornea) or the membranes lining the eyelids (conjunctiva).
Sometimes, the reason your eyelid is twitching cannot be identified. This form of eyelid twitching lasts much longer, is often very uncomfortable, and can also cause your eyelids to close completely.
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• Definition
• Eyelid Twitch Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
• Eyelid Twitch Symptoms & Signs
• Eyelid Twitch Treatment
• Eyelid Twitch Prognosis
• Eyelid Twitch Complications
• Eyelid Twitch Support Groups
• Calling Your Health Care Provider
• Pictures & Images
Review Date : 11/11/2003
Reviewed By : Jacqueline A. Hart, M.D., Department of Internal Medicine, Newton-Wellesley Hospital, Boston, Ma., and Senior Medical Editor, A.D.A.M., Inc. Previously reviewed by Edward B. Feinberg, M. D., Professor and Chair, Ophthalmology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (7/21/2003).
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