Muscle twitching or fasciculation involves small muscular contractions in the body. It is important to note that the muscles are comprised of fibers that are controlled by the nerves. If there is stimulation or damage to a nerve, it can cause the muscle fibers to start twitching.
Most instances of muscle twitching remain unnoticed and not an issue for concern. In some cases, it might indicate a condition affecting the nervous system that requires further assessment by a doctor.
What are the causes?
There are different conditions that can lead to muscle twitching. If the twitching is minimal, it is usually the result of less serious, lifestyle-related issues. As for severe cases of muscle twitching, it is often due to a serious underlying condition.
Common minor causes
- Accumulation of lactic acid in the muscles utilized during exercise, usually the legs, arms and the back.
- Anxiety and stress are often known as “nervous ticks” that can affect any muscle in the body.
- Excess consumption of caffeine or other stimulants
- Deficiencies in certain nutrients such as vitamin B, calcium and vitamin D can trigger spasms particularly in the calves, eyelids and hands
- Dehydration
- Muscle spasms that occur in the eyelid or the area surrounding the eye while the eyelid or eye surface is irritated
- Nicotine present in cigarettes or other tobacco products
- Adverse reactions to certain drugs including estrogen pills and corticosteroids
These usual causes of muscle twitching are relatively minor conditions that can resolve and must subside after a couple of days.
A doctor should be consulted if medications are suspected of causing the muscle twitching. The doctor might recommend a lower dosage or switch to a different medication. Additionally, a doctor must be consulted if an individual has a nutritional deficiency.
Management of muscle twitching
Remember that treatment is not usually needed for muscle twitching. The spasms usually subside without treatment within a few days. Nevertheless, treatment might be needed if the cause is a serious underlying condition.
Preventive measures
The muscle twitching could not always be prevented. Luckily, there are some measures that can reduce the risk such as the following:
- Balanced diet – the diet should be comprised of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and moderate amount of proteins
- Adequate sleep – it is required to sleep 6-8 hours every night to stay healthy since it allows the body to heal and recover
- Proper management of stress – relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation or Tai Chi can help reduce the level of stress
- Reduce the intake of caffeine – avoid caffeinated beverages or foods that contain caffeine since these can increase the twitching episodes
- Cessation of smoking – individuals who smoke should stop the habit since cigarettes contain nicotine which is a mild stimulant the affects the central nervous system. By quitting smoking, it reduces the risk for other serious health issues.
- Switching medications – those who are using stimulant medications that develop muscle twitching should consult a doctor. The doctor will prescribe a different medication that does not causes twitching.