Muscle Twitching: Causes & Treatment of Involuntary Movements

  • Thread starter Mk
  • Start date
In summary, sometimes muscles can twitch for no reason and this can happen in various parts of the body, such as the eye, arm, or knee. Possible causes include excessive energy, stress, and blood flow. Some people may experience twitching as a result of mild localized seizures, known as fasciculations, which can have various causes and are often benign.
  • #1
Mk
2,043
4
Why do sometimes my muscles twitch for no reason. It happens by your eye, it happens in your arm, why? a muscle around my knee just twitched, and I wondered why.
 
Biology news on Phys.org
  • #2
Do you take stimulants by any chance? Coffee? Tea? Asthma inhaler? Ritalin? Adderall? Chocolate?
I don't know about you, but my eyebrows start to twitch really bad if I've had too much coffee.

Interesting fact I found while making this post: chocolate is poisonous to cats and dogs because they are unable to effectively metabolize theobromine. Just thought I would share this.
 
  • #3
What papers said coffee brings up twitches ?
 
  • #4
I don't know of any papers that say that, but just from common sense, it seems like an excess of energy can cause your muscles to twitch, especially if you do not exersize regularly. Also when I was really stressed two years ago my right eye had a twitch going constantly. My teacher noticed it and said that I needed to relax.
-Scott
 
  • #5
i think it is due to the veins that can't hold up the blood flows at a certain moment, it may also be an excess blood concentration over a particular area.
 
  • #6
Thats a good question. I think most mild twitching is due to stress. It seems like its your body's way of trying to relieve it. During exam week I find myself twitching on a regular basis. :biggrin:
 
  • #7
I am very low stress, and do not consume stimulants in any form. I get deja vu a lot though, several times per day, which Zooby and Hypnogouge told me are mild localized seizures in the hippocampus.
 
  • #8
What you're experiencing are called fasciculations. Fasciculations can have many causes. Most often, they're fairly benign.

Follow this link, and the link to "Benign Fasciculation Syndrome" :

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fasciculation
 

1. What causes muscle twitching?

Muscle twitching, also known as fasciculations, can be caused by a variety of factors including nerve damage, electrolyte imbalances, stress, fatigue, and certain medications. In some cases, it may also be a symptom of an underlying medical condition such as ALS or multiple sclerosis.

2. Is muscle twitching a serious condition?

In most cases, muscle twitching is not a serious condition and can be easily treated. However, if the twitching is accompanied by other symptoms such as weakness, numbness, or difficulty moving, it may be a sign of a more serious underlying issue and should be evaluated by a doctor.

3. How can muscle twitching be treated?

The treatment for muscle twitching depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, making lifestyle changes such as reducing stress and getting enough rest can help alleviate twitching. Other treatments may include taking medication to address any imbalances or underlying conditions, physical therapy, or nerve stimulation techniques.

4. Can muscle twitching be prevented?

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent muscle twitching, there are some steps that can be taken to reduce the risk. These include maintaining a healthy diet, managing stress levels, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep. Additionally, avoiding certain medications or substances that may trigger twitching can also help prevent it.

5. When should I see a doctor for muscle twitching?

You should see a doctor if you experience frequent or persistent muscle twitching, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms. It is also important to seek medical attention if the twitching is interfering with your daily activities or if it is causing you significant discomfort.

Similar threads

  • Biology and Medical
Replies
2
Views
822
Replies
4
Views
746
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
5
Views
1K
Replies
12
Views
3K
Replies
2
Views
4K
  • Biology and Medical
2
Replies
55
Views
28K
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
14
Views
18K
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
7
Views
2K
Back
Top