A muscle spasm in your eyelids, a condition commonly known as eye twitching, does not typically indicate a serious medical condition. In most instances, the spasm will disappear after a short period of time, but some people do experience twitches that last a week or two. Periodic twitching episodes might not require treatment, but you should know the possible causes of twitching, such as low magnesium levels, to help you avoid recurring problems.
Magnesium
Your body requires magnesium to help with many of the processes that occur throughout your body. This includes organ function, energy production and nutrient regulation. Magnesium also aids in the function and health of your muscles, and low magnesium levels can cause muscle spasms. These twitches could occur in any muscle in your body, including your eyelids.
Treatment
If you suspect that your eyelid twitching might stem from low intake of magnesium, contact your doctor. She can test the level of magnesium in your blood to determine the need for any treatment. If you have eye twitching from low magnesium levels, your doctor might recommend that you take magnesium supplements to ensure that you have a steady intake of the nutrient each day. Once you reach a stable serum level of magnesium, you should notice a decrease or complete elimination of the muscle twitches.
Other Causes
Although some people experience eye twitches from poor magnesium intake, many people experience the twitches from more benign causes such as stress, caffeine intake or lack of sleep. Other factors such as eye irritation and alcohol consumption might also cause eyelid twitching. In these cases, your twitching should ease once the caffeine or alcohol clears your system or once you rest. If an eye infection or other eye condition contributes to your twitching, you might need to contact your doctor for an exam.
Considerations
You should not take magnesium supplements without first consulting your doctor. She can help you determine if any conditions you have or medications you take would interact with magnesium supplements. If your eyelid twitching lasts for more than a week or two, contact your doctor. You should also seek medical attention if the twitch causes your entire eyelid to close completely or if you have additional twitching on your face or other parts of your body.
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