Blepharospasm

Blepharospasm is an abnormal tic, spasm, or twitch of the eyelid. It is sometimes referred to as Benign Essential Blepharospasm. Focal dystonia is another phrase for this condition, which involves a involuntary muscle contraction around the eyes. The cause can be fatigue, irritant or caffeine. The symptoms can last for a few days, but commonly disappear without treatment. Severe cases can be chronic.

Besides the tic, symptoms of blepharospasm are eye dryness, excessive blinking, twitching, sensitivity to the sun and bright lights. Blepharospasm occurs spontaneously with no indicators. Patients who experience blepharospasm usually have a history of dry eyes and photo sensitivity. Other syndromes such as Meige’s syndrome have been associated with blepharospasm. Drugs used to treat Parkinson’s disease have also been known to cause blepharospasm. Rarely, blepharospasms can be caused by concussions.