Intermittent Muscle Twitching in the Left Cheek: Causes and Solutions

Twitching in the left zygomatic bone area?

Hello, doctor.
For the past couple of days, I've been experiencing intermittent and irregular muscle twitching in the left cheekbone area (without pain).
Each twitch lasts about one to two seconds.
Sometimes, looking down triggers the twitching, but other times it does not.
My sleep has been normal, I don’t stay up late, and I have no stress.
I would like to know what the issue might be.
Can it be self-managed, or do I need to see a doctor? Thank you.

Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/09/08

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello Ms.
Lin,
You mentioned that "the muscles in the left cheekbone area intermittently but irregularly twitch...
and this symptom may be triggered by looking down." This symptom may need to be considered in the context of cervical nerve inflammation, especially among individuals who frequently look down or overuse their cervical spine.
Certain metabolic disorders, such as hyperthyroidism and electrolyte imbalances, can also present with similar symptoms.

Changing positions every 15 minutes allows the neck tissues to rest; maintaining any position (including normal ones) for an extended period can lead to tissue fatigue and inflammation.
Therefore, moving around briefly can reduce the chances of muscle inflammation.
Typically, symptoms improve within a week.

I recommend reducing the intake of caffeine, which can stimulate the nervous system.
You may also consider supplementing with vitamin B and staying hydrated, ensuring ample rest to enhance your body's self-healing capabilities.
It is advisable to visit a neurology outpatient clinic for further examination and follow-up.
Prior to and after your medical visit, please implement self-protection measures, maintain cleanliness and disinfection, and adhere to new preventive health practices.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss any related questions! Wishing you good health, safety, and happiness.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Taoyuan Medical Center

Reply Date: 2023/09/08

More Info

Intermittent muscle twitching, particularly in the facial area, can be concerning and may arise from various causes. In your case, the twitching in the left cheekbone area, which occurs intermittently and is not accompanied by pain, could be attributed to several factors.

One common cause of facial muscle twitching is benign fasciculation syndrome, which is characterized by involuntary muscle contractions that are usually harmless. These twitches can occur due to fatigue, stress, or even caffeine consumption. Given that you mentioned you have no stress and maintain a regular sleep schedule, it may be less likely that these factors are contributing to your symptoms.

Another potential cause could be nervous system irritability. This can occur due to minor irritations of the facial nerves, often resulting from factors such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalances (especially low levels of magnesium or potassium), or even excessive caffeine intake. It’s important to ensure that you are well-hydrated and consuming a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients.

In some cases, facial twitching can be associated with muscle fatigue or overuse. If you have recently engaged in activities that require significant facial muscle use, such as prolonged talking, singing, or even chewing, this could lead to temporary twitching.
Additionally, neurological conditions such as hemifacial spasm or even more benign conditions like myokymia could be considered, although these are less common and usually present with additional symptoms. If the twitching persists or worsens, or if you begin to experience other symptoms such as weakness, numbness, or changes in vision, it would be prudent to seek medical evaluation.

As for self-management, there are several strategies you can employ to alleviate the twitching:
1. Hydration: Ensure you are drinking enough water throughout the day.

2. Diet: Incorporate foods rich in magnesium and potassium, such as bananas, nuts, and leafy greens.

3. Caffeine Reduction: If you consume a lot of caffeine, consider reducing your intake to see if that helps.

4. Stress Management: Even if you feel you are not under stress, engaging in relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, or meditation can be beneficial.

5. Rest: Ensure you are getting adequate rest and not overexerting your facial muscles.

If the twitching continues or if you have any concerns about your symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. A neurologist can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination and possibly imaging studies if deemed necessary, to rule out any underlying conditions.

In summary, while intermittent muscle twitching in the left cheek may not be a cause for immediate concern, monitoring the situation and implementing self-care strategies can be beneficial. If symptoms persist or worsen, seeking medical advice is the best course of action.

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