What causes bizarre twitch in your eye that's hard to explain and when to seek medical help

Ever just sat at your desk staring at your screen when the skin around your eye starts moving a madness? Or maybe you’ve been chatting to your mate when it looks like you’re suddenly trying to wink at them at a rapid speed.

When that weird little eye twitch starts, there seems to be nothing to do but ride it out. And perhaps sometimes other people don’t even notice it but you can certainly feel it.

Although, it can be pretty hard to explain – as I’m clearly starting to prove here.

But the weird little twitch in your eye randomly comes and goes with no warning and sometimes, no obvious reason.

However, there are a list of potential causes, and while the NHS urge that they are usually nothing to worry about, twitching eyes can sometimes require medical help.

You may have found yourself experiencing a weird little twitch around your eye (Getty Stock)

What causes eye twitching?

Eyelid twitching is typically called myokymia and can be linked to a number of causes including stress and anxiety, fatigue, drinking caffeine or alcohol and some medications.

The twitches can also be due to nicotine, eye strain, being exposed to bright light, wind or air pollution or irritation.

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When you should be worried and need to reach out for help

Eye twitches tend to come and go, usually stopping in a few days or weeks. There isn’t typically any treatment for a twitch.

However, the NHS says there are occasions when you should see a GP. This includes if you have a twitch for over two weeks or you have a twitch in more than one place.

You should also make a GP appointment if the affected area feels weak or stiff or if you think your twitch might be caused by a prescribed medicine.

It is recommended to get plenty of rest and to try to relax (Getty Stock)

Lifestyle changes to make and how you can reduce stress

It’s really important to try and not worry about your twitch, they are usually harmless and the NHS says that worrying can end up making it worse.

If you’re getting bothered by eye twitches, it recommends you get plenty of rest and try to find ways to relax.

It is also recommends some changes to your lifestyle, such as cutting down on caffeine and alcohol. However, if you’re worried your prescribed medicine is causing the twitch, don’t stop taking it without getting medical advice first.

As stress is a key cause of eye twitching, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the following to lower your daily stress level:

· Avoid constantly consuming negative news stories

· Connect with those who you like being around

· Exercise regular

· Make time in your routine to unwind and do things you enjoy

· Try out meditation or yoga

· Deep breathing

But really, stress management can work differently from person to person, so it’s worth trying out different methods to find out what works for you.