Magnesium deficiency, fatigue… A trembling or twitching eyelid can have several meanings. What are the possible causes of this tremor called “fasciculation” of the eyelid? What if it persists for several days?
You have certainly felt small twitching of the eyelid, which occur uncontrollably and irregularly. A twitching eyelid is medically called a fasciculation. When should you be worried? What diseases can cause eye tremors? Magnesium deficiency? A big tiredness? Worse ? How to stop and cure eyelid tremor?
What is the meaning of a twitching eyelid?
This fasciculation of the eyelid arises from involuntary contraction of the orbicularis muscle of the eyelid. The phenomenon only lasts a few seconds and usually affects one eye at a time. Most of the time, this tremor is due to a eyestrain, which leads to neuromuscular junction dysfunction. Finally, a magnesium deficiencya mineral essential for proper muscle function, can also be the cause of this tremor.
The sign of a deficiency?
Certain deficiencies, such as magnesium, can explain the eyelid tremor. Indeed, magnesium is an essential trace element for the proper functioning of nerves and muscles.
The sign of fatigue?
A twitching eyelid may be a sign of eyestrain, due to overuse of the eyes or too much screen time, for example. While the causes of eyelid tremor are not clearly identified, there are factors that tend to cause it to appear, such as lack of sleep or stress. If you consume too much caffeine, this can also trigger the phenomenon. Finally, the jolt can also occur after the excessive practice of a sporting activity.
What diseases can cause eyelid tremor?
In very rare cases, eyelid tremor can indeed be the precursor symptom ofa neurological disease (like the Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis – ALS) or a sign of damage to the facial nerves.
What remedies and solutions for eyelid tremors?
There is no no medical treatment for fasciculations. However, it is possible to act by eliminating the risk factors likely to trigger this symptom. You can start with yourself relax as much as possible (through breathing exercises or yoga) and preserve your sleep. If you think lack of magnesium, bet on mineral waters that contain the most, as well as on dark chocolate, oilseeds (walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds) or whole grains. To counter the eyestrainremember to take breaks if you work in front of a screen and massage your eyelids gently, in small circular movements.
When to consult in case of trembling eyelid?
If the tremor persists for several weeks despite the elimination of the triggering factors, do not hesitate to consult your doctor, to verify that it is indeed a simple fasciculation. He can make a diagnosis of exclusionin which he will verify that it is not another more severe pathology. An electromyogram can thus be performed, and will show what are called fasciculation potentials. Stress tests may also be performed, looking for muscle weakness.
Thanks to Doctor Handschuh, GP.