Eyelid twitching? Here’s why and how to fix it

A sudden blinking of the eyes or eyelid twitching is a common problem in our daily lives and many people get quite panicked because of it.

The primary causes behind the problem include dryness of the eyes, excessive screen time, allergies, dust, lack of sleep, and mental stress. Excessive consumption of caffeine or alcohol, malnutrition, and a deficiency of magnesium or calcium are also major factors.

For remedies, one should follow the 20-20-20 rule, which involves looking at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds after looking at a screen continuously for 20 minutes. Other effective measures include ensuring 7-8 hours of deep sleep, using artificial tears, and drinking less tea, coffee, and cold drinks.

Moreover, using glasses of the correct power, splashing water on the eyes, and practicing regular meditation or exercise for mental well-being are recommended. Eating foods rich in calcium and magnesium - such as milk, eggs, bananas, nuts, and spinach - is necessary.

However, if eye redness, itching, and eyelid twitching remain for more than two weeks, a consultation with an eye specialist is absolutely mandatory.

Writer: Medical Officer, Bangladesh Eye Hospital, Dhanmondi.