Facial Twitching: Causes and Solutions for Smile Control

Q: Facial Twitching: Causes and Solutions for Smile Control

Hello Miss An An： You mentioned, "I practice smiling from time to time, and I can control the corners of my mouth well, but when taking a photo, my left mouth corner still twitches uncontrollably..." This may be indicative of common muscle fasciculation. <br>Prolonged physical ac

Facial twitching?

Hello, doctor.
When I take pictures, the left corner of my mouth suddenly starts to twitch, but this doesn't happen normally.
To prevent this from occurring, I practice smiling frequently, and during those times, I can control the corner of my mouth well.
However, when it's time to take a picture, the left corner still twitches uncontrollably.
I've considered whether it might be due to psychological factors, but I have an outgoing personality and am not afraid of the camera, so it shouldn't be a psychological issue, right? I hope you can help clarify this for me.
Thank you for your hard work!

An An An, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/01/16

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello Miss An An: You mentioned, "I practice smiling from time to time, and I can control the corners of my mouth well, but when taking a photo, my left mouth corner still twitches uncontrollably..." This may be indicative of common muscle fasciculation.
Prolonged physical activity is one of the primary causes of muscle twitching.
Common medications that can lead to muscle twitching include diuretics, corticosteroids, estrogens, and excessive caffeine.
In clinical practice, we often observe many patients caught in a vicious cycle where slight muscle twitches lead to anxiety, which in turn exacerbates the twitching, further intensifying the patient's panic and anxiety.
Thank you for your question, and feel free to discuss any related issues further! Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Taoyuan Medical Center, cares for you.

Reply Date: 2022/01/16

More Info

Facial twitching, particularly in the context of smile control, can be a perplexing issue that affects many individuals. The phenomenon you are experiencing, where your left mouth corner twitches unexpectedly during photo sessions, can be attributed to several potential causes, both physiological and psychological.
Firstly, it’s essential to understand that facial twitching, or myokymia, can occur due to various factors. One of the most common causes is fatigue or stress. Even if you consider yourself an outgoing person, the pressure of being photographed can create a subtle level of anxiety or tension that may not be immediately apparent. This tension can lead to involuntary muscle contractions, resulting in twitching.
Another possibility is related to the neuromuscular control of facial muscles. The facial nerve (cranial nerve VII) is responsible for controlling the muscles of facial expression. If there is any irritation or dysfunction in this nerve, it can lead to abnormal muscle contractions. This could be due to a previous injury, inflammation, or even a benign condition like hemifacial spasm, which is characterized by involuntary twitching of the facial muscles.
Additionally, dehydration and electrolyte imbalances can contribute to muscle twitching. Ensuring that you are well-hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients can help mitigate these symptoms.
In your case, since the twitching occurs specifically during photo sessions, it might be beneficial to explore relaxation techniques before being photographed. Deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, or even gentle facial massages can help reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation. Practicing smiling in front of a mirror without the pressure of a camera may also help you gain better control over your facial muscles.

If the twitching persists or worsens, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional, particularly a neurologist. They can conduct a thorough evaluation to rule out any underlying neurological conditions and may recommend treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or other interventions if necessary.

In summary, while your facial twitching during smiles may seem concerning, it is often manageable with lifestyle adjustments and relaxation techniques. Understanding the underlying causes, whether they be stress-related or neuromuscular, can empower you to take proactive steps towards controlling the twitching. Remember, it’s always best to seek professional advice if you have ongoing concerns about your health.

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