What causes persistent twitching of the lower eyelid of the right eye?

Nov 13, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Shuai
Introduction
In general, persistent twitching of the lower right eyelid may be caused by foreign bodies in the eye, excessive eye strain, mental stress, eye inflammation, or facial muscle spasms. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. In daily life, it is important to regularly clean the eyes and avoid rubbing them directly with hands to prevent eye infections.

Generally, persistent twitching of the lower eyelid of the right eye may be caused by foreign bodies in the eye, excessive eye use, mental stress, conjunctivitis, or facial muscle spasms. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Foreign Body in the Eye

If foreign objects such as dust or sand enter the eye, the eye instinctively attempts to expel them through blinking or twitching. Therefore, twitching of the lower eyelid of the right eye may occur, often accompanied by a distinct sensation of a foreign body or a gritty, painful feeling. You may try rinsing the eyes with normal saline solution or seek assistance from a professional doctor to remove the foreign object.

2. Excessive Eye Use

Extended periods of staring at electronic screens or reading books can keep the eyes in a tense state for long durations, leading to eye muscle fatigue, which may result in involuntary twitching of the lower eyelid. Adequate rest for the eyes, performing eye exercises, or applying warm compresses to the eyes can help relieve eye muscle fatigue.

3. High Mental Stress

When a person experiences emotional states such as nervousness or anxiety, the nervous system may be affected, which in turn impacts the nerves that control the eye muscles, causing twitching of the eye muscles. You can try relieving mental stress through physical exercise or talking to friends, thereby reducing symptoms of eye muscle twitching.

4. Conjunctivitis

Allergic reactions or infections can irritate the ocular nerves and muscles, causing conjunctivitis, which may also be accompanied by symptoms such as red eyes and increased eye secretions. It is recommended to use medications such as sodium cromoglicate eye drops, olopatadine hydrochloride eye drops, or emedastine difumarate eye drops under a doctor's guidance for treatment.

5. Facial Muscle Spasms

Facial nerve dysfunction may occur due to vascular compression of the facial nerve or other reasons. Initially, it may manifest only as twitching of the lower eyelid, but over time it may gradually affect other facial muscles, with the condition progressively worsening. Treatment may include medications such as carbamazepine tablets, oxcarbazepine tablets, or botulinum toxin type A for injection under a doctor's guidance.

In daily life, it is important to maintain regular eye hygiene and avoid rubbing the eyes directly with hands to prevent eye infections.