Eye Twitching: Myths and Facts Revealed

27-11-2017   |   Posted By: Shagun Parasher   |   10213 View(s)

What does it mean when your eyes twitch? Get a detailed insight on the meaning of Eye Twitching, its types, causes, superstitions associated with them, and the treatment. Hold on with us tight as you are about to discover something new today.

What does Eye Twitching Mean?

Twitching of the eyes is scientifically known as the spasm of the eyes. It is called as “Blepharospasm” in the medical terms. These rippling muscle contractions involve the lower lid only, but sometimes it can also occur in the upper lid as well. Mostly these twitches come and go, but some can last for weeks in one or both the eyes. While “Twitching” the lid moves every few seconds for a minute or two.

Types of Eye Twitches

There are three basic types of eyelid twitches, depending upon their intensities. Here are they;

1. Mild Eye Twitch

This kind of eye/eyelid twitch is associated with the changes in lifestyle. It can include Fatigue, Stress, Lack of Sleep or consumption of alcohol or tobacco. It can also be a result of the irritation of cornea or conjunctiva.

2. Benign Essential Twitch

This is caused by ageing. Women are more likely to be affected by this problem than men. It is not a serious issue but can interfere with your daily lives.

3. Hemifacial Spasm

This kind of spasm starts from the muscles of your mouth to the eyelids. These occur very rarely. Unlike the other two types, it only affects one side of the face. The cause of a Hemifacial spasm is the pressing of an artery on the facial nerve.

What Causes Twitching of the Eyes?

Eye Twitching can be linked to various reasons, such as:

• Stress
• Tiredness
• Caffeine
• Eye strain
• Drinking alcohols
• Allergies
• Nutritional imbalance
• Dryness in the eyes

Twitches are painless and harmless. They usually go away on their own. The intensity of twitches can vary- they can be mild or intense. If the spasms are powerful, they can cause your eyelids to shut completely and reopen.

Myths and Facts Associated with Eye Twitching

There are numerous myths and facts related to the twitching of eyes. Some people and cultures consider them as good omen while others think that they are just too bad. Also, in some cultures, it is believed that whether an eye twitch is a good sign or a bad sign will depend on the gender of the affected person. Let us get into the details of Myths that are related to eye twitches for both the yes one by one.

Superstitions from India

The Indian culture believes that the eye spasms are different for both the eyes. It is also believed that it is dependent on the part of the eyelid that twitches and the gender of the affected person unlike in Chinese culture, where the time is considered to predict whether the eye twitch is a good sign or a bad one.

Right Eye Twitches    

Twitching of the right eye is considered as a good omen. Indians believe that when the right eye twitches, you should start looking forward to good news, gaining some money or an achievement to happen in your life. This is for men, but if the right eye of a woman twitches, it is considered to be a bad sign.  There is also a saying that if your right eye is twitching, the chances are that someone is gossiping about you.

Left Eye Twitches

The twitching of left eye is considered inauspicious for men but very lucky for women. However, parts of the left eye can tell if it is a bad sign or not. The twitching of left eye pupil is a sign of good luck.  The middle left eye twitches signal monetary gains. The left eyelid shows that someone is about to go through a tough time. The lower part of your eyelid shows that you are going to be spending money soon on to something. If the left eyebrow twitches, then it means you are about to welcome a newborn child soon.

Twitching of the Eyes in other countries

In China, a pattern opposite to that of India is followed. Also, there are different superstitions by the time in which twitching of the eye takes place.

In Africa, it is said that if the lower right eye twitches, the chances are that you might shed some tears very soon while the upper right twitch is a sign of meeting someone.

In Hawaii, right eyelid twitching is considered as a signal of an impending birth. Twitching of the left eye can indicate a nearing death in the family. It also means that someone new is going to arrive at your doorstep.

In Nigeria, the superstitions are same as that of the India. Nigerians believe that the left eye spasm indicates terrible luck.

How to Get Relief from Eyelid Twitching

The twitching of your eyes is not in your hands. It is a result of the voluntary actions of the muscles and blood vessels of your face. As we discussed earlier, a hectic day-to-day schedule can lead to the twitching of eyes. Sure, eye spasms are irritating but what do you do to relieve an eye spasm? If this is what you Google every time your eyes twitch, then, we just suggest you hold on to this post a little more. Here are some ways by which eye spasms can be treated.

1. Get Enough Sleep

Getting a good sleep is essential for the whole body, as we know. The recommended time of sleeping is seven to eight hours every day. Any less than this can have adverse effects on your overall body and not just the eyes. Our eyes are the ones that suffer the most if we do not get proper sleep and as a result, the twitching of eyes happens.

2. Get, Set, Nutrients

You can suffer from eyelid twitching if your body lacks in essential nutrients such as Vitamin D, Vitamin B12 and some magnesium minerals. Consuming foods loaded with these nutrients can help prevent eyelid spasms. Such foods include Green Leafy Vegetables (for magnesium and other crucial nutrients). Get going into the morning sun for the getting the right amount of vitamin D. Your doctor may advise you supplements for vitamin B12.

3. Reduce the Strain

Watching Television, being in front of the computer screens for long hours and working in odd lighting strain your eyes. This pressure can put your eyes in the twitching phase. Take short breaks if you work on the computer, cut the duration of watching television and only work in favourable lighting to reduce the strain.

4. Lubrication is a Must

Dryness can contribute to eyelid twitching. Washing your eyes at regular intervals, closing the eyes for a few seconds and even using lubricating eye drops can help prevent your eyes from drying.

Caution- Use the eye drops that your eye doctor recommends.

5. Relax those Eyes

Working for too long and not taking a break can lead to exertion in your eyes. It is vital to give your eyes a rest. Covering your eyes with cucumber, potatoes and green tea bags can prove beneficial. Beauty Tip: these also prevent dark circles and baggy eyes.

So, this was about some facts related to Eye Twitching. We also discussed some ways by which you can prevent your eyes from twitching. If you find this post useful, do not forget to tell us in the comments down below. If you know some more myths related to the twitching of eyes, comment down below.