Have you ever experienced your left eye twitching? Eye twitching is generally known as eyelid twitching, and is a very common eye condition that affects the eyelid of one eye causing it to blink or twitch, which can sometimes get annoying. In most cases, it’s the lower eyelid that succumbs to twitching. But in some cases, the upper eyelid could also be affected with twitches. 

Is the Left Eye Twitching a Sign of Stroke? 

Before we get into the causes and remedies of eye twitching, let’s address the elephant in the room – the question of whether left eye twitching is a sign of stroke.

A stroke happens when there is a roadblock in the normal supply of oxygen to your brain. While eye twitching alone is not a sign of stroke, it can still be one if it occurs alongside the below symptoms:

• Balance: Sudden dizziness, vertigo, headache, loss of balance or coordination
  
• Eyes: Blurred vision, double vision or sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes
  
• Face: Drooping or numbness on one side of the face, or an uneven or lopsided smile
  
• Numbness: Weakness or numbness in one arm or leg
  
• Speech: Slurred speech or difficulty speaking or understanding

Left Eye Blinking Causes

While the majority of twitching cases occur with the left eye, there are ample cases where the occurrence of twitching can be experienced with the right eye too. The common cause and triggers for twitching are:

• Stress
• Fatigue
• Eye-strain
• Excess intake of caffeine
• Excess intake of alcohol
• Dry eyes
• Nutrition problems
• Allergies

Remedies of Eye Twitching Triggers 

Stress

Meditation, breathing exercises, yoga, or even something as simple as allowing yourself to take a break now and then are some of the simple ways to reduce the stress that may be causing your eyelid twitch.

Fatigue

We can’t stress this enough — but your body requires at least 6 to 8 hours of sleep to not feel fatigued. It is also important to avoid overworking.

Eye Strain

Reduce the use of digital gadgets which cause eye strain (digital eye strain) and lead to eyelid twitching. Take a break from your screen every 20 minutes and focus on any other object for 20 seconds or more. Follow some tips to reduce eye strain when working from home or while using digital devices. 

You could also consult your eye doctor to have your eyes checked and get anti-glare computer eyeglasses. 

Caffeine

Reduce the intake of coffee, tea, chocolate and aerated drinks for a few weeks and see the difference it makes.

Alcohol

Abstain from alcohol consumption for some time, and your twitching eye could be back to normal. 

Dry Eyes

Consult an ophthalmologist to restore the moisture in the surface of your eye and reduce the risk of twitching in the future.

Nutrition Problems

Maintain a healthy and nutritious diet to eliminate the chances of eye spasms.

Allergies

Consult your eye doctor for the best treatment to stop eye twitching caused by allergies.

Is Eye Twitching Bad?

Usually, eye twitching is not a permanent condition. However, in some cases, it can last for weeks or even months. It is mostly harmless but if it persists, it could mean an underlying neurological condition that needs the immediate attention of an eye doctor. In some rare cases, the following brain and nervous system disorders can also cause eyelid twitching:

• Parkinson’s disease
• Brain damage
• Multiple sclerosis
• Bell’s palsy
• Tourette’s syndrome
• Dystonia

Every minute counts. If you are suffering from any symptoms, please seek immediate medical attention. 

Are you concerned about your eye twitching condition and need an expert opinion? The ophthalmologists at Prasad in Mangalore and Udupi could give you the eyecare and guidance you need. Call us at +91 9513596565 or book an appointment if you wish to visit in person. You can also book a teleconsultation.