What is blepharospasm?

27 October 2022

Blepharospasm is a neurological disorder that causes uncontrollable muscle movements that cause the eyelids to close or have difficulty opening. This can affect patients' ability to see.

Symptoms begin with uncontrollable spasms of the eyelids that come and go. It usually begins gradually and worsens over time. As the disease progresses, constant blinking may be experienced and the opening between the eyelids may narrow. In advanced cases of blepharospasm, you may not be able to keep your eyes open or you may find it difficult to open them.

Blepharospasm does not directly affect vision, but when you cannot keep your eyes open, your ability to perform everyday tasks is limited.

Blepharospasm usually appears in middle age, but it can occur at any age. Sometimes dry eye can cause blepharospasm, so it is important to see your doctor to rule out other causes of your excessive blinking. Certain medications, such as those for Parkinson's disease, can cause blepharospasm.

In the early stages, you may experience frequent blinking during the day, which disappears while you sleep. As the disease progresses, they become more severe with fewer periods of relief. You may experience:

• Constant blinking
• Dry eyes
• Narrowing of the eyes
• Tired, irritated eyes
• Difficulty keeping your eyes open

There are three types of treatment for blepharospasm:

• Oral medications, including those that block involuntary muscle movements (anticholinergics), but their effect is usually limited.

• Botulinum toxin injections, which weaken the ability of the eye muscles to contract. Botulinum toxin is one of the most effective treatments for blepharospasm.

• Surgery (orbiculectomy), a procedure to remove part or all of the overactive eye muscles.