Eye twitching: causes and what you can do about it

Eye twitching usually has harmless causes and usually disappears after a few minutes. But if it lasts longer, it is annoying and you assume the worst. In this practical tip we show you what the possible causes are and how you can get rid of the twitching - even permanently.

These are the causes of eye twitching

The twitching of the eyes or eyelids is called beninge fasciculation. This means the involuntary twitching of the muscle groups in the eyelid. This can occur on both sides, rarely even at the same time. And as suddenly as it appears, it usually disappears. The causes are usually harmless and can be remedied without medical advice.

• Magnesium deficiency - The most common reason is a simple magnesium deficiency. If the body does not get enough of this mineral, muscles or nerves are affected and twitching and cramps can occur.
• Stress - If you suffer from stress, the body reacts to it. A symptom can be the twitching of the eyes.
• Fatigue - If the eye muscles suffer from fatigue, this can cause a twitch.

Nervous eye - you can do that

If the twitching of the eyelid does not resolve itself, you can master the situation again with these simple tricks.

• Massage - Place one or more fingers on the affected jerking area and massage the muscle area in a circle. On the one hand, this relaxes the muscles, on the other hand you take a moment for your body and so - both - come to rest.
• Break - If your eyes are overworked, for example by working on the screen, you should often take a break. Let your eyes wander around the room, look out of the window or go out into the fresh air.
• Distraction - Switching off and distracting are good ways if the eye twitching occurs frequently. If you still like to watch TV at home after work on the screen or use your cell phone in bed, you should also switch off the devices and switch them off. This permanent eye strain is harmful and can lead to worse conditions such as chronic headaches. If you like to do sports after work, you can counteract the twitching of your eyes, if you like it less sporty you can also go to a bar with friends. The main thing is to relax.
• Nutrition - Magnesium deficiency can be controlled without food supplements. Mostly due to a diet or poor diet, you don't add enough of the mineral to your body. Among other things, leg cramps or muscle twitches occur, for example on the knee or arm. Legumes like beans are rich in magnesium. But any nuts, seeds or cereals are also suitable. Whole grain products are also recommended.

Shrugging eyes can also be a symptom

If the twitching occurs here and there and can be controlled using the methods described above, you don't have to worry. Nevertheless, you should not underestimate such a small twitch. See a doctor if you don't notice any improvement.

• If the eyelid twitching occurs more frequently and lasts longer, a chronic magnesium deficiency can be the cause and indicate a serious illness.
• When there is a lot of stress, twitching can also be understood as a warning system and should never be underestimated.
• Excessive strain on the eyelid and the associated twitching can also indicate ametropia. The ophthalmologist would be the right address here.