Frequent Eye Blinking: Should You See an Eye or Neurology Specialist?

Q: Frequent Eye Blinking: Should You See an Eye or Neurology Specialist?

Hello： Based on the symptoms you described, such as frequent blinking, shivering, and the urge to rub your eyes upon waking, these may be related to various factors, including dry eye syndrome, eye fatigue, anxiety, or neurological issues. <br>Here are some potentially helpful su

Frequent blinking without awareness, should I see an ophthalmologist or a neurologist?

Hello, Doctor.
I am a 26-year-old female currently taking isotretinoin and oral contraceptives.
I have also been diagnosed with floaters by a specialist.
I have experienced frequent blinking since college, which was diagnosed as dry eye syndrome at that time.
Additionally, I have had a history of shivering and trembling behaviors since childhood.
Recently, these symptoms have worsened and are affecting my professionalism at work.
My colleagues pointed out the severity of the situation, and I occasionally feel a strong urge to rub my eyes upon waking up.
I am uncertain whether this is due to a lack of moisture in my eyes or a neurological issue.
I have been troubled by this recently but have not had the time to consult both specialties.
I am seeking your advice.
Thank you.

Miss Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/03/21

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: Based on the symptoms you described, such as frequent blinking, shivering, and the urge to rub your eyes upon waking, these may be related to various factors, including dry eye syndrome, eye fatigue, anxiety, or neurological issues.
Here are some potentially helpful suggestions: 1.
Maintain a regular routine: Ensure adequate sleep, avoid staying up late, and take regular breaks for your eyes.
2.
Reduce screen time: Limit prolonged exposure to computers, smartphones, and other electronic devices.
3.
Stay hydrated: Maintain a healthy diet, drink plenty of water, and avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine consumption.
4.
Pay attention to moisture: Use lubricating eye drops or artificial tears to alleviate dry eye symptoms, and avoid using irritating cosmetics or cleaning products.
5.
Engage in appropriate exercise: Regular physical activity can help relieve bodily tension and anxiety.
If these suggestions do not alleviate your symptoms, it is advisable to visit an ophthalmologist for an examination to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
If necessary, follow up with a neurologist to check for any neurological issues.

Reply Date: 2023/03/21

More Info

Frequent eye blinking can be a perplexing symptom, especially when it has been a long-standing issue. Given your background, including the use of isotretinoin (A酸) and birth control pills, along with a diagnosis of floaters (飛蚊症) and a history of dry eye syndrome, it’s essential to consider both ocular and neurological factors in your case.

Firstly, frequent blinking can often be attributed to dry eye syndrome, which is characterized by insufficient tear production or poor tear quality. This condition can lead to discomfort, a sensation of grittiness, and the urge to rub the eyes, especially upon waking. The use of isotretinoin can exacerbate dry eyes, as it reduces oil production in the glands that help keep the eyes lubricated. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that your eyes are adequately moisturized. Over-the-counter artificial tears can provide relief, and it might be beneficial to discuss this with your eye care provider.

However, given your description of the problem worsening and affecting your professional life, it’s also important to consider neurological factors. Conditions such as blepharospasm, which is an involuntary blinking or spasm of the eyelids, can occur due to neurological issues. Stress and anxiety can also manifest physically, leading to increased blinking or other involuntary movements. The fact that you have a history of tremors (打冷顫抖) may suggest a neurological component that warrants further investigation.

Since you mentioned that you have limited time to visit both an eye specialist and a neurologist, I recommend prioritizing an appointment with a comprehensive eye care center that can address both ocular and neurological concerns. Some specialized clinics have the capability to perform a thorough evaluation, including tests for dry eye syndrome, as well as assessments for any neurological implications. This dual approach can save you time and provide a more holistic understanding of your symptoms.

In terms of your concern about whether this is primarily an eye issue or a neurological one, it is often a combination of both. Dry eyes can lead to increased blinking, but if there are underlying neurological factors, they may need to be addressed to alleviate the symptoms effectively.
As for your question regarding the potential for improvement or resolution of your symptoms, many patients find relief through a combination of treatments. For dry eyes, regular use of artificial tears, punctal plugs (to reduce tear drainage), and lifestyle modifications (like taking breaks during prolonged screen time) can be beneficial. If a neurological condition is identified, targeted therapies may also help.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may initially seem to stem from dry eye syndrome, the presence of neurological symptoms and the impact on your daily life suggest that a comprehensive evaluation is warranted. I encourage you to seek out a specialized clinic that can address both aspects of your health. With appropriate management, there is a good chance for improvement in your symptoms, allowing you to regain comfort and confidence in your professional environment.

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