Eye Twitch Treatment Perth
What are eye twitches (Blepharospasm and Hemifacial Spasms)
Eye twitches (or Blepharospasm) are defined as involuntary movements of the eyelids and commonly referred to as a twitch or flicker of the eyelid.
In very severe cases, the muscular spasms force the eyelids shut, making everyday activities almost impossible for fear of ‘losing’ eyesight due to the condition.
Most people develop blepharospasm without any warning symptoms but may experience one or more of the following:
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- A gradual increase in blinking or eye irritation
- Fatigue
- Emotional tension, or;
- Sensitivity to bright light.
Muscles that move the eyelid and eye.
Eye twitch treatment
There are a number of treatment options available that may reduce the severity of eye twitches. These depend on your specific symptoms and severity and may include:
Oral medications – Some specific medications may help reduce the symptoms in the short term.
Injections – Small amounts of Botulinum toxin is injected into the muscles around the eye that control eyelid closure. The toxin induces weakness and/or paralysis of the eye muscles involved in lid closure, thereby reducing the degree and frequency of lid twitch.
Alternative therapies – Stress, light sensitivity or some other factor may trigger or increase the severity of the twitches. Discuss possible alternatives with your doctor to explore what may work best for you.
Surgery – The current surgical approach removes some of the muscles and nerves involved in the closing of the eyelids.
WA Eye Specialists – Eye Twitch Treatment
There is no particular test for blepharospasm. Diagnosis by a specialist, relies on physical examination, medical history and ruling out other possible causes.
It is important to discuss treatment approaches with your doctor as success rates vary from person to person dependant on the treatment and severity of symptoms.
Eye Twitch Treatment Perth
Our ophthalmologists see patients from all over Perth and rural Western Australia. They diagnose and treat a wide range of eye conditions including eye twitches and have practices in Armadale, Joondalup, Midland, Murdoch and South Perth.