Which department should I visit for twitching in the lower eyelid?
Nov 19, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
In general, depending on the specific cause, twitching of the lower eyelid can be evaluated by ophthalmology, neurology, psychiatry and psychology, endocrinology, or general medicine. Additionally, if you are unsure which department to visit, you may consult the hospital's guidance desk. In daily life, ensure adequate sleep, reduce use of electronic devices, and avoid staying up late and excessive fatigue to lower the likelihood of lower eyelid twitching.
Under normal circumstances, when experiencing twitching of the lower eyelid, one may choose to visit departments such as ophthalmology, neurology, psychiatry and psychology, endocrinology, or general medicine depending on the specific cause. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Ophthalmology
Ophthalmology is the first-choice department for lower eyelid twitching caused by eye-related issues such as eye strain, dry eye syndrome, or eyelid inflammation. The muscles around the lower eyelid are innervated by ocular nerves, and irritation to the eyes can easily lead to abnormal nerve discharges, resulting in involuntary muscle contractions. Doctors determine the underlying cause through vision tests and slit-lamp examinations, and prescribe artificial tears or anti-inflammatory medications to relieve discomfort.
2. Neurology
If lower eyelid twitching persists for more than two weeks or is accompanied by twitching in other areas of the face, a visit to the neurology department is recommended. This condition may be related to nerve disorders such as facial nerve compression or hemifacial spasm, where abnormal nerve conduction leads to muscle spasms. Physicians use neurophysiological tests to identify the issue and may treat it with medications or botulinum toxin injections to regulate nerve function.
3. Psychiatry and Psychology
Lower eyelid twitching caused by chronic anxiety, stress, or emotional tension should be evaluated in the psychiatry and psychology department. Emotional fluctuations can disrupt the balance of the neuroendocrine system and increase muscle excitability. Through psychological assessments, doctors can determine the patient's mental state and use counseling or emotional regulation techniques to alleviate symptoms and correct nervous system dysfunction.
4. Endocrinology
Endocrine disorders such as thyroid dysfunction or hypoglycemia may also trigger lower eyelid twitching, requiring consultation with the endocrinology department. Hormonal imbalances or abnormal blood glucose levels can interfere with neuromuscular function, leading to abnormal muscle contractions. Doctors assess relevant markers through blood tests and adjust the endocrine status accordingly to relieve twitching symptoms.
5. General Medicine
If the cause of the lower eyelid twitching is unclear or the symptoms are mild, patients may first consult the general medicine department. General practitioners perform initial evaluations, determine whether referral to a specialist is needed, and provide basic recommendations based on overall health, guiding further treatment.
In addition, if unsure which department to visit, patients can seek advice from the hospital’s triage desk. In daily life, it is important to ensure adequate sleep, reduce screen time, avoid staying up late and overexertion, thereby lowering the likelihood of lower eyelid twitching.
