Why Do Our Eyes Twitch When We Are Tired ?

By Vanshika Gaur
19 May 2025, 15:00 IST

Eye twitching, also known as myokymia, is an involuntary contraction of the eye muscles, commonly occurring in the lower eyelid when we are tired. Here are a few reasons why our eyes twitch when we are tired. Tap to know!

Dehydration

Dehydration can disrupt muscle function and cause electrolyte imbalance, leading to eye twitching, especially when tired.

Dry Eyes

Dry eyes occur when there is not enough lubrication, causing irritation and leading to eye twitching.

Eye Strain

Spending too much time on screens when you are already tired can make the eye muscles work harder, causing eye strain and leading to eye twitching.

Stress

Eye twitching can also be caused by stress and anxiety, as high cortisol and adrenaline levels increase muscle tension, leading to eye twitching.

Nerve Irritation

When we are tired, the nerves can become more sensitive and more susceptible to irritation, causing eyelid muscles to twitch.

Caffeine Consumption

Caffeine from coffee or tea can disrupt nerve or muscle function, making you jittery and potentially leading to eye twitching.

Sleep Deprivation

Sleep deprivation can make the nervous system jittery, leading to involuntary eye muscle contractions, i.e., eye twitching.

Information Credits

According to PubMed, eye twitching or myokymia can occur due to stress, fatigue, caffeine, and more. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional if you are experiencing eye twitching.