Eyebrow twitching occurs when a small muscle in your eyebrow spasms involuntarily, which means it can’t be controlled. When this happens, part of your eyebrow appears to rapidly shake or tremble. An eyebrow twitch is similar to an eye twitch, which occurs when one of your eyelids spasms. Eyebrow twitching can certainly be annoying, but it is usually harmless and happens to most people every once in a while. But these tinny spasms usually go away on their own.
Causes of eyebrow twitching
Eyebrow twitching causes are included:
Caffeine
Consuming too much caffeine may cause your eyes to twitch. Keep a record of how much caffeine you drink, along with any eye twitches to see if the two are related. If your eyes tend to twitch more when you drink caffeine, cutting back on coffee, tea, soda, and energy drinks should help.
Alcohol, drugs, or tobacco
Drinking alcohol, using tobacco, or taking recreational drugs can all cause your eyes to twitch. Reducing your alcohol intake and avoiding tobacco and recreational drugs could fix the problem.
Medications
Taking certain medications, especially antiepileptic or antipsychotic medications, can cause your eyes to twitch. If your medication is causing your eyes to twitch and it bothers you, talk to your doctor about trying different medications and dosages.
Eyestrain
Straining your eyes or squinting can cause eye twitching. If you find yourself squinting a lot outside, wear sunglasses. If you spend a lot of time at a computer, make sure you take breaks or try the 20-20-20 rule. Twitching can also mean that it’s time for a new prescription if you wear glasses or contact lenses.
Nutritional issues
Not getting enough magnesium or potassium in your diet may also cause your eyes to twitch.
Adding these foods to your diet may help:
- Nuts
- Dark chocolate
- Avocados
- bananas
Stress
Stress may produce physical reactions, including eye twitching. Try to eliminate any sources of stress that you can. When that isn’t possible, try relaxation techniques, such as exercise or medication.
Allergies
People with allergies may be more susceptible to eye twitching. Researchers believe that histamine, which is released when you rub your irritated eyes, may cause eye twitching. Medication and treatments that relieve allergy symptoms may help.
Fatigue
Your eyes are more likely to twitch when you’re out of energy. Try to get at least seven hours of sleep each night. If you’re getting enough sleep but are still feeling fatigued, talk to your doctor to rule out any underlying conditions.
Bell’s palsy
Bell’s palsy causes a temporary weakness or paralysis of the muscles in your face. This usually happens when your facial nerve becomes swollen or compressed. It can also be associated with other conditions like ear infections, high blood pressure, and diabetes.
Other symptoms of Bell’s palsy include:
- Drooping on one side of the face
- Drooling
- Facial twitches
- An inability to open or close eyes
- Difficulty eating and drinking
Treatment
People can reduce the intense of these symptoms:
- Drinking less caffeine
- Getting more rest
- Applying a warm compress to the eyes
- Getting enough magnesium in their diet
- Using eye drop
People should consult their doctor if they experience any of the following symptoms:
- The eyelids or facial muscles droop
- Swelling, redness, or discharge develops in or around the eyes
- Twitching also occurs in other parts of the face or body
Outlook
Eye twitching usually resolves without any treatment and sometimes lifestyle changes can help. If changes to your habits, sleep schedule, stress levels, or diet don’t work, work with your doctor to rule out any underlying conditions.
