Muscle twitches, though often harmless, can sometimes be a sign of underlying health issues. They are commonly caused by stress, anxiety, lack of sleep, and dietary imbalances. Stress and anxiety release neurotransmitters from the nerves supplying the muscles, altering ion concentration and pH levels, which can lead to muscle twitching. Inadequate sleep, crucial for recharging the body, can also contribute to this condition.

Many muscle twitches can be attributed to behaviors like excessive caffeine intake, insufficient fluid intake, inadequate sleep, or heavy weight lifting. According to Ryan Jacobson, MD, a neuromuscular specialist at RUSH University Medical Center, most muscle twitches are not a cause for concern. However, in certain neurological disorders, involuntary muscle movements, known as myoclonus, can occur. These rapid, brief, involuntary jerking movements can be triggered by sudden muscle contractions or losses of muscle tone.

Fasciculations, a type of involuntary muscle movement, are characterized by chronic contractions, spasms, twitches, or cramps. Cramp-fasciculation syndrome (CFS), a peripheral nerve disorder, often affects the legs, leading to accelerated nerve activity. Stretching and applying heat can alleviate symptoms, as suggested by Harvard Health.

Hemifacial spasm (HFS) is another neurological disorder, causing twitching on one side of the face due to involuntary muscle contractions. It typically begins around one eye and may spread to facial muscles on the same side. A transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a temporary disruption in blood flow affecting nerve function, which could manifest as muscle twitching and is a warning sign for a potential stroke.

For more detailed information on muscle twitches and related conditions, you can visit Ohio State Medical Center, RUSH, Stanford 25, Baylor Medicine, UK Healthcare, and Harvard Health through the following links:

Ohio State Medical Center
RUSH
Stanford 25
Baylor Medicine
UK Healthcare
Harvard Health