Eye Twitching Disorder

Is Eye or Facial Twitching Dangerous?

What Causes It and How Can It Be Treated?

---

Blepharospasm

Blepharospasm is a condition caused by abnormal contractions of the muscles around the eyes
(orbicularis oculi muscle), resulting in involuntary twitching or spasms.

Hemifacial spasm refers to involuntary contractions affecting one side of the face.
This condition is commonly found in adults aged 45–50 years and occurs more frequently in women than men.

Early symptoms often begin with twitching around the corner of the eye and may occur during periods of:

• Stress
• Illness
• Fatigue
• Lack of sleep

Symptoms may come and go initially, but can gradually worsen and interfere with vision and daily life.

---

Causes

The exact cause is not fully known, but it is believed to be related to abnormalities of the 7th cranial nerve, leading to muscle spasms and facial twitching.

Possible contributing factors include:

• Tumors pressing on nerves
• Blood vessels compressing nerves
• Stress
• Sleep deprivation
• Excess caffeine
• Alcohol consumption

---

Treatment Options

Medication

Several medications may be prescribed, such as:

• Carbamazepine
• Gabapentin
• Clonazepam
• Baclofen

However, medications may cause side effects including:

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness

---

Surgery

Microvascular Decompression Surgery is performed to separate blood vessels compressing the nerve.

This is a major surgical procedure with:

• Higher cost
• Surgical risks
• Potential complications related to brain surgery

---

Botulinum Toxin (Botox) Treatment

Currently, Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections are widely used because they provide effective results.

Botox works by blocking nerve signals to the muscles, helping the muscles relax and reducing twitching.

Benefits

• Visible improvement within 1–2 weeks
• Effects last approximately 3–6 months
• No surgery required
• Reduced surgical risks

Possible Side Effects

• Drooping eyelids
• Incomplete eyelid closure
• Dry eyes
• Facial asymmetry

These side effects are temporary and improve as the medication wears off.

---

When Should You See a Doctor?

Consult a doctor immediately if:

• Twitching becomes frequent
• Symptoms worsen
• Vision is affected
• Daily activities are disrupted

---

Treatment Services

Patients can receive examination and Botox injection treatment
every Friday and Saturday at the Eye Center, 2nd Floor,
Kasemrad Prachachuen Hospital.

Tel. 0-2910-1600 ext. 1433

---

Carl Zeiss MEL90

Advanced LASIK Innovation

LASIK is one of the most effective and widely accepted treatments for correcting refractive vision problems.

---

Kasemrad Prachachuen Eye & LASIK Center

Tel. 02-910-1600 ext. 1433, 1437