Help for eyelids or a face that twitch or squeeze shut on their own.
Blepharospasm is a nerve-related condition (a focal dystonia) that makes the eyelids blink or squeeze shut on their own, usually in both eyes. It can make it hard to keep your eyes open, read or drive.
The cause is often unknown. Dry eye and bright light can make it worse.
Simplified illustration, not to scale.
Hemifacial spasm is twitching of the muscles on one side of the face that you cannot control. It often starts around the eye and spreads to the cheek and mouth.
It is often linked to a blood vessel pressing on the facial nerve. A brain scan (MRI) is commonly arranged to look for a cause.
Simplified illustration, not to scale.
Blepharospasm makes both eyes blink or squeeze shut.
Hemifacial spasm makes one side of the face twitch, often from the eye down to the mouth.
Blinking more than usual, in both eyes.
The lids close on their own and are hard to open.
Bright light or wind sets off the spasms.
Reading, driving or watching TV gets harder.
Twitching affects one side of the face.
It often begins as a twitch of the lower or upper lid.
Over time it can pull at the cheek and corner of the mouth.
The eye on that side may squeeze shut.
Both conditions are most often managed with botulinum toxin (Botox®) injections, repeated every few months; effects wear off over time. Other options, such as medicines, may also be discussed. For hemifacial spasm, a brain scan (MRI) is commonly arranged, and a referral to discuss surgery with a neurosurgeon is sometimes an option.
Ordinary eyelid twitching (myokymia) from stress, caffeine or poor sleep is common and usually settles on its own.
See a doctor promptly: new weakness or drooping of the face, or other neurological symptoms, needs urgent medical attention.
Dr. Conlon will explain the benefits and risks at your consultation.
Treatment may be covered by Saskatchewan Health when medically necessary. We’ll confirm at your consultation.
Performed by Dr. M. Ronan Conlon, fellowship-trained in oculoplastic/orbital surgery (approved ASOPRS fellowship, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics).
Meet Dr. Conlon →Coming from out of town? We see many patients who travel a long distance, and we can often arrange virtual follow-ups where appropriate, so you make fewer trips.
Consultations are free.
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