Signs and symptoms
Excessive blinking and spasming of one or both eyes – characterized by uncontrollable eyelid closure of durations longer than the typical blink reflex. The spells of spasming may last for minutes or even hours
Uncontrollable contractions or twitches of the eye muscles and surrounding facial area. Some sufferers have twitching symptoms that radiate into the nose, face, cheeks, and sometimes, the neck area
Dryness of the eyes
Sensitivity to the sun and bright light

Causes
Some causes of blepharospasm have been identified; however, the causes of many cases of blepharospasm remain unknown. Some people with blepharospasm have a history of dry eyes, light sensitivity, and even fatigue. Others report no eye problems before onset of symptoms. Some drugs can induce blepharospasm, such as those used to treat Parkinsons disease, as well as hormone treatments, including estrogen-replacement therapy for women going through menopause. Blepharospasm can also be a symptom of acute withdrawal from benzodiazepines. Prolonged use of benzodiazepines can induce blepharospasm and is a known risk factor for the development of blepharospasm.Blepharospasm may also come from abnormal functioning of the brains basal ganglia. Simultaneous dry eye and dystonias such as Meiges syndrome have been observed. Blepharospasms can be caused by concussions in some rare cases, when a blow to the back of the head damages the basal ganglia.Multiple sclerosis can cause blepharospasm. Treatment
Drug therapy for blepharospasm has proved generally unpredictable and short-termed. Anticholinergics, tranquillizing drugs and botulinum toxin are the mostly used therapeutic options. However serious side effects can be observed as well as failure of therapy.
The work of Joaquin Farias has shown that sensorimotor retraining activities and proprioceptive stimulation can induce neuroplasticity, making it possible for patients to recover substantial function that was lost due to blepharospasm.Developed by The Eye Research Group Oxford, PressOp™ is a new ethically approved spectacle mounted device that arose after studying individuals with Blepharospasm who regularly use “sensory tricks”. By applying pressure to the temple region of their forehead patients found this helped to enable eye opening. The device is particularly helpful controlling an episode of severe spasm when the carrying out of specific tasks is necessary. Blepharospasm sufferers may find continuity in their quality of life by using the device while effectiveness of treatment is not at its peak. See also
Levator palpebrae superioris muscle
Myokymia
Fasciculation

References
External links

Blepharospasm – Resource Guide from the National Eye Institute (NEI)