What is Excessive involuntary blinking (Blepharospasm)?
Benign essential blepharospasm is the term used for any abnormal blinking or eyelid twitching, the cause of which is unknown. It is a type of facial dystonia and the spasms can intensify as the disease progresses such that people can have increasing difficulties holding their eyes open.
Treatment options for Blepharospasm
- Medical
Many different medications eg: trihexyphenidyl, clonazepam have been tried over the years with limited success. Expert advice and supervision are required as some agents have potential side effects and even dependency.
- Botulinum Toxin
This is the most effective and best tolerated treatment for blepharospasm. It works by preventing nerve cell signals from reaching muscles. When injected in tiny amounts around the eyelids and eyebrows it can be useful at reducing muscle spasm. The injections tend to work for a few months and then need to be repeated.
- Supportive treatments
Some patients may be helped from therapies to reduce stress if appropriate. Dark glasses are often useful and occasionally distraction techniques may reduce spasms. Many sufferers will benefit from the support offered by groups such as the dystonia society.
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