Excessive blinking or uncontrollable closure of the eyelids

It's quite common and normal for the eyelid to flicker or twitch occasionally, particularly when you're tired.

It's moreunusual tohave repeated spasms of excessive blinking and involuntary closure of one or both eyes. This isa type of dystonia (a movement disorder that causes muscle spasms and contractions) known as blepharospasm. Each spasm can last for a few seconds toa few minutes.

The exact cause ofblepharospasm is unknown. However, the blinking and closure can be triggered by bright light,stress or tiredness.

Severeblepharospasm can be very disabling and embarrassing. However, an effective treatment is available. It involves having small injections of botulinum toxin (such as Botox) into the faceto relax the muscles controlling the eyelids.

In some cases, your GP may consider referring you to a neurologist (a specialist in conditions affecting the brain and nerves) for further investigation.

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Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018