Eye Twitching, Dryness, and Pressure: Common Causes and Solutions

Q: Eye Twitching, Dryness, and Pressure: Common Causes and Solutions

Hello： Based on the situation you described, there are several possible causes that may lead to your eye discomfort symptoms. <br>1. <br>Eye fatigue and dryness： Prolonged use of tablets and wearing contact lenses may cause eye fatigue and a sensation of dryness. <br>This can res

Dry eyes, eyelid twitching, and a sensation of high eye pressure?

Hello Doctor, since last week, my right upper eyelid has been twitching continuously.
The frequency is irregular, but it twitches many times at once, and the movement is visibly noticeable.
At the same time, I have experienced dryness in my eyes and a sensation of increased intraocular pressure, feeling like my eyeball is swollen, although everything looks normal externally—there's no redness or swelling, and I don't have photophobia or tearing.
However, the discomfort affects my head, leading to mild headaches.
I also have a perception of disparity between my left and right eyes, although there is none in reality.
Sometimes, my right eye appears slightly blurry, but it resolves after a few seconds.
Regarding my eye habits, I usually wear contact lenses and spend long hours reading on a tablet.
Currently, I am using artificial tears and plan to see a doctor in a few days.
I would like to ask what might be causing these issues.
Thank you for your clarification, Doctor.

Miss Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/11/16

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: Based on the situation you described, there are several possible causes that may lead to your eye discomfort symptoms.
1.
Eye fatigue and dryness: Prolonged use of tablets and wearing contact lenses may cause eye fatigue and a sensation of dryness.
This can result in eyelid twitching, increased eye pressure sensation, and discomfort such as migraines.
2.
Ocular muscle fatigue: Extended use of digital devices or prolonged reading may lead to ocular muscle fatigue, which can cause visual distortions, blurriness, and temporary vision problems.
3.
Insufficient eye rest: Concentrating on screens or books for long periods may reduce the frequency of blinking, leading to dryness and fatigue in the eyes.
It is recommended that you temporarily reduce your use of digital devices before seeing a physician, ensure adequate rest, and use artificial tears to alleviate your eye discomfort.

Reply Date: 2023/11/16

More Info

Based on your description of symptoms, including eye twitching, dryness, a sensation of increased eye pressure, and occasional blurriness, there are several potential causes and solutions to consider.

Possible Causes
1. Eye Strain and Fatigue: Prolonged use of digital devices, such as tablets, can lead to digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome. This condition is characterized by symptoms such as dry eyes, blurred vision, and eye twitching. The muscles around the eyes may become fatigued from constant focus on screens, leading to twitching and discomfort.

2. Dry Eye Syndrome: The use of contact lenses, especially for extended periods, can exacerbate dry eye symptoms. Dry eyes can cause a feeling of pressure or heaviness in the eyes, and they may also contribute to twitching. Insufficient tear production or poor tear quality can lead to dryness, resulting in discomfort and visual disturbances.

3. Stress and Fatigue: Stress and lack of sleep can also contribute to eye twitching and discomfort. The body’s response to stress can manifest physically, including muscle spasms around the eyes.

4. Allergies: Allergic reactions can cause eye irritation, leading to symptoms such as dryness and twitching. If you have a history of allergies, this could be a contributing factor.

5. Caffeine Intake: Excessive caffeine consumption can lead to muscle twitching, including in the eyelids. If you consume a lot of caffeine, consider reducing your intake to see if your symptoms improve.

Solutions and Recommendations
1. Take Regular Breaks: Implement the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This helps reduce eye strain and fatigue.

2. Use Artificial Tears: Since you have already started using artificial tears, continue to do so. They can help alleviate dryness and provide comfort. Look for preservative-free options if you need to use them frequently.

3. Adjust Your Environment: Ensure that your workspace is well-lit and that you are not straining to see your screen. Adjust the brightness and contrast of your devices to reduce glare.

4. Limit Contact Lens Use: If possible, reduce the time you wear contact lenses, especially if you are experiencing dryness. Consider switching to glasses for a while to give your eyes a break.

5. Manage Stress: Engage in stress-reducing activities such as exercise, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises. Reducing stress can help alleviate muscle tension, including around the eyes.

6. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help maintain overall hydration, which can benefit eye moisture levels.

7. Consult an Eye Care Professional: Since you mentioned that you have an appointment with a doctor soon, it is essential to discuss all your symptoms in detail. They may recommend further evaluation or treatment options, such as prescription eye drops or lifestyle changes tailored to your specific needs.

Conclusion
In summary, your symptoms of eye twitching, dryness, and a sensation of increased pressure are likely related to a combination of eye strain, dry eye syndrome, and possibly stress. Implementing the suggested solutions can help alleviate your discomfort. However, it is crucial to follow up with your eye care professional for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan. Regular check-ups can help monitor your eye health and prevent potential complications.

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