I Have Eye Pain and a Headache. What Should I Do?

11-05-2020

How should I approach eye pain and a headache? 

Eye pain and headache symptoms can happen due to having a simple refractive error or something as urgent as an eye disease. If you experience these symptoms in unison, we recommend reaching out to your eye doctor right away to ensure you get the best eye pain treatment method fast. 

When you’ve been on the computer for a while, it’s normal to get a headache. Usually, some over-the-counter medication and a quick nap will do the trick, but that’s not always the case.

If you have eye pain and a headache, for instance, you might need to take additional action. 

Why do I have eye pain and a headache? 

Think of eye pain like severe irritation within your eye and all areas around it. There’s no single answer that explains the causes of eye pain. However, no matter the condition or accompanying symptoms, you should report eye pain to your optometrist straight away, as it can indicate an eye disease or other pressing eye problem. 

Glaucoma and optic neuritis are two serious conditions that can cause eye pain and headaches, according to the American Optometric Association (AOA). Glaucoma is a top contributor to vision loss among Americans, affecting people age 40 and above more than any other demographic, though even babies are at risk. 

If you develop acute angle-closure glaucoma, your symptoms might be sudden as a result of a dramatic boost in eye pressure. Those with this form of glaucoma may experience bloodshot eyes, blurry vision, queasiness, and significant ocular pain, along with headaches. Once your symptoms manifest, you’ll want to see an eye doctor for the proper treatment and to avoid further changes in eyesight. 

Optic neuritis is also serious and necessitates an eye exam. This condition indicates optic nerve inflammation or other harm. In addition to headaches, you should look out for the following symptoms in your eyes:

• An incorrect perception of color saturation
• Discomfort behind your eye or on your eyes when you look around a lot
• Unclear or darkened vision

Keep in mind that your symptoms may flare up if you’re too warm or due for some sleep. Remember to contact an eye doctor if you have these issues, as your symptoms may progress if left alone. 

While eye pain and headaches are usually serious, they might not be. For instance, you may have a refractive error (e.g., astigmatism, hyperopia, myopia, or presbyopia), which eye doctors haven’t detected yet since it’s been a while since your last eye appointment.

Hyperopia, also called farsightedness, can make you have to strain your eyes to see books and other objects up close. Straining your eyes may cause a burning sensation, along with headaches. Fortunately, corrective lenses are often all you’ll need for your symptoms. 

What should I do if I have eye pain and a headache? 

If you have a headache and pain behind your eye or inside of it, the best thing to do is contact an eye doctor. You can schedule a comprehensive eye exam at your local For Eyes to get started. 

Here’s what you’ll need for your appointment:

• A list of your medications 
• A quick description of your family medical history, as it pertains to eyes
• Notes on your signs of vision loss
• Your photo I.D.
• Your vision insurance card

Summary: How should I approach eye pain and a headache? 

Eye pain and headache symptoms can happen due to having a simple refractive error or something as urgent as an eye disease. If you experience these symptoms in unison, we recommend reaching out to your eye doctor right away to ensure you get the best eye pain treatment method fast. 

While some conditions are unavoidable, working with an eye doctor can help you overcome many symptoms. Your eye doctor can assist you with glaucoma and optic neuritis, for instance, which are severe conditions that can cause headaches and eye pain. 

One thing’s for sure: your eyes should never be in distress. If they are, let us help. We can offer the right guidance and treatment methods to get your eyes feeling better soon.