How a twitching eye could be a sign of a dangerous health condition

HIGH blood pressure is often indicated by chest pain and difficulty breathing. However, a twitching eyelid could be a lesser known sign of the deadly condition.

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Eyelid twitching: It could be a sign of high blood pressure

Also known as hypertension, it affects more than one in four UK adults and is the second biggest risk factor for premature death.

However, one in eight are unaware they are suffering.

This makes knowing the warning signs of the condition even more important, since it’s a risk factor for heart attacks and stroke.

The most common indicators are difficulty breathing, irregular heartbeat and a severe headache.

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Myokymia: It only affects one eye at a time

A twitching eye could also be a symptom of high blood pressure, along with chest pain and trouble breathing.

However, a twitching eyelid could also be a symptom.

If blood pressure goes up it can cause blood vessels to pulsate.

This can irritate nerves in our eyes which can cause the eyelid to twitch.

Also called an eyelid spasm or blepharospasm, it’s proper term is myokymia.

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Leafy green vegetables: They are rich in magnesium which can ward off eye twitching

According to the Mayo Clinic, it can involve either the upper or lower eyelid, but only one eye at a time.

It can range in severity from barely noticeable to very irritating, and it may go away after a short period or last for hours.

However, it may not always be a sign of high blood pressure.

Alternatively, it could be a sign of burn-out.

Indeed, the Mayo Clinic list stress as a main cause.

Blood pressure: How to take a reading

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Alcohol consumption: Too much can damage nerve endings, causing eyelid twitching

Additionally, not having enough magnesium in your body may also be a trigger.

Since the mineral supports the function of our muscles and nerves, not having enough can cause your eyelid to twitch.

What’s more, it could a sign of a thyroid disorder.

Because if the thyroid gland produces too much of particular hormones - known as hyperthyroidism  it can cause the action.

Finally, over-consuming alcohol can damage nerve endings.

This could result in uncontrolled twitching of the eyelids.

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