Uncontrollable blinking is often considered normal, but in some cases it can lead to various interpretations and perceptions. In Malay culture in particular, blinking the left eye is often associated with certain predictions—such as receiving bad news, missing someone, or a sign of something about to happen.
However, does this left eye blinking have a solid explanation from a medical point of view?
Left Eye Blinking in Islam
@pakdeain IS IT TRUE THAT IF THE EYES FLASH, IT IS A SIGN THAT SOMEONE IS ABOUT TO DIE #ustazharidrus #belief #islamic law #religious science #lecture #eyes #lecture ♬ original sound – PAKDEAIN
Left Eye Blinking Uncontrollably (Eye Twitching)
In medicine, the condition of uncontrollable eye blinking is known as myokymia . It refers to the contraction of small muscles around the eyes, especially the upper or lower eyelids, that occur repeatedly and are not noticed by the individual themselves.
These flashes are usually not painful or dangerous, but can be a nuisance if they persist for a long period of time.
Causes of Left Eye Blinking
Here are some causes of left eye blinking:
1. Eye Strain
Excessive use of electronic devices such as smartphones, laptops and televisions can cause eye strain. This condition is also known as computer vision syndrome, which can trigger myokymia.
2. Lack of Sleep or Physical Fatigue
The left eye blinks due to lack of sleep or physical fatigue. Individuals who experience sleep disturbances or extreme fatigue are more likely to experience muscle spasms, including in the eyelid area.
3. Stress and Emotional Pressure
Emotional stress and anxiety are among the main triggers for uncontrollable blinking. When the body is under stress, the small muscles become more sensitive to external stimuli.
4. Excessive Caffeine Intake
The cause of the left eye blinking is due to excessive caffeine intake.
Caffeinated drinks such as coffee, tea or energy drinks can stimulate the nervous system, causing muscles to become more excitable and producing repetitive movements such as eye blinking.
5. Nutrient Deficiency
Deficiencies in nutrients such as magnesium, potassium or calcium can cause abnormal muscle contractions. Magnesium is particularly important in regulating nerve and muscle activity.
6. Allergies or Dry Eyes
Allergies or dry eyes are also causes of left eye blinking.
Individuals who have eye allergies or dry eyes are more likely to experience eye muscle spasms due to constant friction or irritation.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Normal left eye blinking will usually go away on its own within a few days without any specific treatment. However, there are some situations that require immediate medical attention:
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Eye twitching that lasts more than a week
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Blinking accompanied by completely closed eyelids
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Blinking occurs with changes in vision
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The face becomes tilted or asymmetrical (possible nerve problems)
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Blinking spreads to other parts of the face such as the cheeks or mouth
In rare cases, constant blinking can be a sign of a neurological disorder such as blepharospasm , hemifacial spasm , or multiple sclerosis (MS) .
Beliefs of the Malay Community
Despite the medical explanation, it cannot be denied that the traditional belief regarding the blinking of the left eye is still deeply rooted in society. In Malay culture, every part of the body that pulsates or blinks is often associated with a specific meaning.
Among the beliefs of the Malay community regarding the blinking of the left eye are:
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The upper left eye blinks: You will receive good news.
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Lower left eye blinking: A sign of crying or receiving sad news.
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Repeated blinking throughout the day: Someone is mentioning or missing us.
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Blinking at night: A sign that someone will come to see you soon.
This belief is passed down from generation to generation as part of oral culture. Although it has no scientific basis, it is part of the way society interprets events that occur in daily life.
How to Reduce Left Eye Blinking
If you often experience left eye blinking and want to reduce it, here are some steps you can take:
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Rest your eyes regularly , especially if you use the screen a lot.
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Reduce caffeine and sugar intake
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Get enough sleep every night (at least 7–8 hours)
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Drink enough water to avoid dehydration.
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Practice stress management techniques such as meditation or breathing exercises.
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Use artificial tear drops if you experience dry eyes.
In conclusion, blinking of the left eye is a common and common condition experienced by many people. From a scientific point of view, it has various logical causes such as fatigue, stress, or nutritional deficiencies.
However, in a society rich in cultural and heritage values, this phenomenon is also symbolically interpreted as a certain sign or prediction.
Hope this article is useful.
Republished with permission from theAsianParent Malaysia
