Why Are My Eyes Twitching? Causes and Treatments for Blepharospasm

If you’ve ever felt an uncontrollable twitch or spasm in your eyelid, you’re not alone. Many people experience these involuntary movements, which can range from mildly annoying to seriously disruptive. If your eye twitching is frequent, prolonged, or affecting your quality of life, you may be dealing with blepharospasm—a neurological condition that causes repetitive, uncontrollable contractions of the muscles around the eyes.

At AestheticEye in Cincinnati, OH, our board-certified oculoplastic surgeons, Dr. Henson and Dr. Pargament, specialize in diagnosing and treating blepharospasm. We’re here to help you understand what’s causing your symptoms and offer advanced, personalized treatment options to restore your comfort and peace of mind.

What Is Blepharospasm?

Blepharospasm is a condition characterized by involuntary blinking or eyelid closure caused by abnormal muscle contractions. It usually begins with minor, occasional twitching and can progress over time into more frequent and forceful spasms that interfere with daily activities like reading, driving, or social interactions.

It is classified as a focal dystonia, meaning it involves abnormal nerve signals that cause muscle overactivity in a specific part of the body—in this case, the muscles around the eyes.

Common Causes of Eye Twitching

While occasional eye twitching is common and often harmless, persistent or severe twitching may indicate blepharospasm or another underlying condition. Possible causes include:

• Fatigue and Stress – Lack of sleep and high stress levels are major contributors to eye muscle spasms.
• Eye Strain – Excessive screen time, reading, or poor lighting can strain your eye muscles.
• Dry Eyes – A common issue in adults over 50, dry eyes can trigger spasms as the eye tries to protect itself.
• Caffeine or Alcohol Use – Both substances can overstimulate your nervous system.
• Neurological Conditions – Blepharospasm may be linked to conditions like Parkinson’s disease or other dystonias.
• Medication Side Effects – Certain drugs, especially those affecting the nervous system, can cause muscle twitching.

If your symptoms are ongoing or getting worse, it’s important to seek medical evaluation.

Diagnosis and Evaluation at AestheticEye

At AestheticEye, we take a comprehensive and compassionate approach to diagnosing blepharospasm. During your consultation, Dr. Henson or Dr. Pargament will:

• Review your medical and symptom history
• Examine your eyelid function and facial muscles
• Rule out other causes like dry eye syndrome or hemifacial spasm
• Discuss how your symptoms are affecting your daily life

We take the time to listen and understand the full scope of your condition so we can develop a treatment plan that works for you.

Blepharospasm Treatment Options

Effective blepharospasm treatment is available—and most patients experience meaningful relief with the right approach. At AestheticEye, we offer advanced options, including:

1. Botulinum Toxin Injections (Botox®)

The most common and effective treatment for blepharospasm. Botox relaxes the overactive muscles, reducing or eliminating spasms for several months at a time. Treatments are quick, minimally invasive, and highly effective—about 90% of patients report symptom improvement.

2. Surgical Treatment (Myectomy)

In more severe or resistant cases, a myectomy may be recommended. This procedure involves surgically removing some of the muscles or nerves causing the spasms. It can provide long-term relief when other treatments fail.

3. Supportive Care

For some patients, managing dry eye, adjusting medications, or reducing screen time can significantly improve symptoms. We can also guide you through lifestyle changes that may help.

Why Choose AestheticEye?

Located in Cincinnati, OH, and serving the Dayton area, AestheticEye is one of the region’s premier oculoplastic practices. Our surgeons, Dr. Henson and Dr. Pargament, bring unmatched experience in treating complex eyelid conditions like blepharospasm. We combine advanced surgical expertise with personalized care to help you feel confident, comfortable, and supported.

We don’t just treat the symptoms—we help you regain your quality of life.

Get the Help You Need

If you’re tired of living with constant eye twitching or muscle spasms, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to suffer in silence. At AestheticEye, we offer effective blepharospasm treatment tailored to your needs and lifestyle. Whether you’re in Cincinnati, Dayton, or the surrounding communities, expert care is just a phone call away.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation and discover how we can help you feel more comfortable in your own skin again.