Twitches

What are twitches?

Twitches are minor, uncontrolled, repetitive motions of a muscle. These motions are due to small contractions of the affected muscle. Twitches may occur in any muscle in the body, such as those in the thumb or calf.

Facial tics are a type of twitch occurring in the facial muscles. Facial tics commonly affect the muscles of the eyes or mouth. Facial tics include repetitive mouth spasms, wrinkling of the nose, grimacing, clearing of the throat, blinking, and squinting of the eyes. Facial tics are common during childhood.

Twitches may be short-lived or permanent. There are many causes of twitches, which vary substantially in severity. Minor twitches may be the result of exercise or caffeine consumption. Some twitches may be the result of a neurological condition or traumatic brain injury. In some cases, the cause of twitches is not known.

Twitches may be a symptom of serious or life-threatening condition, such as a stroke or traumatic brain injury. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you have serious symptoms, such as numbness or weakness on one side of your body; a change in level of consciousness or alertness, such as passing out or unresponsiveness; or the worst headache of your life, as these can be signs of stroke.

Seek prompt medical care if your twitches are persistent or cause you concern.