Eyelid Twitching in Newborns

Ask an Eye M.D. Answer Archive

Question:
Is bilateral eye twitching/spasms common in newborns?     

Answer:
Eyelid twitching/spasms in newborns is uncommon. The presence of these signs should prompt an evaluation by a pediatric ophthalmologist and possibly a pediatric neurologist to evaluate the child for a variety of neurologic conditions including seizures, Aicardi Syndrome, Tourette's disease, etc. Interestingly there is a syndrome called Jaw Winking Syndrome. In this condition, an infant's eyelids twitch with feedings. In this situation the child may have a misdirected third nerve. Eyelid opening is stimulated by sucking. This condition may be associated with one or two droopy eyelids. Eyelid surgery may help improve this condition. 

Answered by: Rona Silkiss, MD 

Categories: Children's Eye Health, Eye Health Conditions

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