Causes of Muscle Twitches and Spasms


Muscles Have a Mind of Their Own?

You tell your muscles what to do without thinking about it. But sometimes they do their own thing — they might pulse or contract and can’t relax. Twitches and spasms are most common in the thighs, calves, hands, arms, belly, ribcage, and the arches of your foot. They can involve part of a muscle, all of it, or a group of muscles. Doctors aren’t always sure why they happen, but a few common triggers can set them off.

Eyelid Twitches

Eyelid feel like it’s giving you Morse code? That’s called myokymia. These random twitches, which can feel faint or really bug you, happen on the upper or lower lid. Triggers range from stress and smoking to wind, bright light, too much caffeine, and lack of sleep. Though annoying, the twitches are harmless and usually go away quickly, but they can come back over the next few days.

When Eyelid Twitches Don’t Go Away

Twitches that last more than a few days could be a sign of an eye issue, like dry eyes or glaucoma. They could also happen if you have a problem that affects movement in your face muscles. In rare cases, eye twitches can be a sign of brain or nerve disorders like Bell’s palsy, multiple sclerosis, and Tourette’s syndrome. But these conditions will cause other symptoms, too.

Low in Electrolytes

Your muscles depend on minerals, like potassium and magnesium, to work properly. If you’re running low on them, your body sends you a message with cramps and spasms. Exercise or heavy sweating can deplete you, but some medications can, too. You might also lose too many electrolytes after a bout of diarrhea or vomiting.

Not Enough Water

If you don’t get enough to drink, your muscles will be more likely to twitch and spasm. It’s not just the water — when you sweat a lot or lose body fluids when you’re sick, you also lose electrolytes, another common reason for twitching muscles


You can sometimes blame stress for headaches or insomnia,  but it can also cause tension and pain in your muscles. Try a relaxation technique, like massage or meditation, to work them out.

Too Much Caffeine

Caffeine can get you going in the morning and pull you out of the afternoon slump. But too much can trigger muscle twitches in various parts of your body. Other stimulant drugs, like amphetamines, have the same effect

Lack of Sleep and Exhaustion

If you’re tired or run-down, twitches and spasms can be one way your body lets you know. Your muscles might also feel achy and sore or just generally weak.

You’re Out of Shape

If you notice spasms after a workout or walk, you may need to spend more time building your muscles. When you don’t work them enough, they’re more likely to get too tired — and cramp up. Add strength training to your routine at least twice a week.



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