ShareYourGroupShareYourGroupShakun and Apshakun

Eye twitching: meaning

What it is said to mean in tradition, what is really happening and a sensible way to think about it.

In popular belief

Tradition says that a twitching right eye is a good sign for a man and a bad one for a woman, and that a twitching left eye is the reverse; some versions give the readings for the upper and lower lid as well. There are many variations from region to region.

What is really happening

A twitching eyelid is a minor muscle spasm called myokymia. It is common and harmless and is often linked to tiredness, stress, too much caffeine or eye strain. It usually passes in a few days.

A sensible way to think about it

Rest, drink water, reduce screen time and caffeine. If the twitching lasts for weeks, spreads to other parts of the face, or the eyelid droops, see a doctor.

See also

Questions people ask

What does eye twitching mean?

Tradition says that a twitching right eye is a good sign for a man and a bad one for a woman, and that a twitching left eye is the reverse; some versions give the readings for the upper and lower lid as well. There are many variations from region to region.

Does it predict anything?

No. It is a tradition and there is no evidence that it predicts anything.

This page reports popular beliefs for interest. Omens do not predict anything, and nothing here is advice. Please do not cancel anything important, such as a medical appointment, an exam or a journey, because of an omen.