There are three common types of eyelid spasms:
- Eyelid twitch (tic)
- Bepharospasm and
- Hemifacial spasm
Eyelid Twitch
Eyelid twitch or tic in one part of a lid.
Treatment
It most often subsides without treatment.
Hemifacial Spasm
Hemifacial spasm affects one side of the face. Most commonly symptoms begin near the eye and progress downwards. It is thought to be the result of an artery pressing on the facial nerve at the base of the brain.
Treatment
Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections, repeated on average every 6 months, are the best treatment. Neurosurgery procedure or oral medications may offer some relief.
Blepharospasm
Benign essential blepharospasm, involving both eyes which close involuntarily and for varying periods, is caused by abnormal nerve impulses. Benign because it does not affect anywhere else and essential because the cause is unknown.
Treatment
Currently the best treatment is with botulinum toxin (Botox) injections, repeated on average every 3 months.
