What causes twitching eyes and nerve pain?

Under normal circumstances, twitching or spasms of the eye accompanied by nerve pain are usually associated with factors such as eye trauma, ocular infections, and retinal disorders. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Eye Trauma

When the eye is exposed to external stimuli—such as mechanical injury, irritant gases, ultraviolet radiation, or extreme cold or heat—it may result in damage to internal ocular tissues or structural injury to the eyeball. Such trauma can lead to spasmodic, sharp, or burning pain in the eye. Additional symptoms may include redness and conjunctival swelling. Treatment for eye trauma depends on the severity of the injury and may involve emergency interventions such as decompression to reduce intraocular pressure, removal of accumulated gas or fluid within the eye, and measures to protect the eyeball.

2. Ocular Infection

Ocular infection refers to an infection of the eye caused by viruses, bacteria, or other pathogens. It commonly involves inflammatory conditions of the conjunctiva, such as conjunctivitis, keratitis, or retinitis. These eye diseases can cause neuralgic eye pain, often accompanied by redness, swelling, and clear discharge. Some patients may also experience itching or thick, purulent secretions. Treatment begins with symptom-based care, including cleaning eye discharge and using antibacterial eye drops. Appropriate medical therapy should also be administered, such as topical or oral antibiotics.

3. Retinal Disorders

The retina is a specialized membrane responsible for receiving visual input. Although separated from the sclera (the white outer layer of the eye), it remains connected to it. The retina can gradually be affected by internal and external factors such as visual fatigue, high fever, mechanical injury, or drug irritation. When retinal disorders develop, they may cause continuous, spasmodic eye pain. Severe episodes may be accompanied by a sensation of heat in the eye, as well as headache and dizziness. Diagnosis of retinal disorders requires pathological examination, followed by targeted medical treatment to relieve symptoms. Long-term management includes ensuring adequate rest for visual and ocular activities, avoiding eye strain, and protecting retinal health.

In addition, conditions such as glaucoma, styes (hordeolum), keratitis, and conjunctival concretions may also cause similar symptoms. Patients experiencing unexplained eye pain should promptly seek evaluation at a reputable medical facility for proper diagnosis and timely treatment.