|
Eye pain Considerations:
A feeling of tiredness in the eyes or some discomfort after a long period of work (eye strain) are generally minor problems and do not really qualify as eye pain. This may be due to an improper prescription for glasses.
Pain in the eye, while not a common complaint, can be an important symptom that should be treated if pain does not improve.
Common Causes:
- a problem in the eye itself (an infection, irritation or injury such as a corneal abrasion )
- fever
- a migraine headache (severe pain behind the eye)
- sinus problems (pain either over or below the eye)
- contact lenses
- eye surgery
- a stye ( hordeolum ) can create eye pain that increases as the sty grows
- conjunctivitis (pinkeye) or any inflammation of the upper and lower lids
- pain in both eyes, particularly upon exposure to bright light ( photophobia ) that is common with many viral infections such as flu and will go away as the infection improves
- glaucoma may slowly lead to blindness if not treated
- burns
Note: This list is not all inclusive and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The list of all possible causes can be extensive and include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the list will vary based on the age and gender of the individual as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom, such as location, quality, timing, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for this symptom occurring alone or in combination with other problems.
Home Care:
Resting the eyes, taking an over-the-counter analgesic , and avoiding bright light are generally recommended.
If you think your eye pain is due to wearing contact lenses, avoid wearing the lenses for a few days and see if the pain goes away.
Call Your Healthcare Provider If:
- there is pain, redness, swelling, discharge, or pressure in the eye(s) that persists - particularly if it affects vision.
- the pain is severe or prolonged beyond 2 days.
- eye pain is not associated with a viral illness or eyestrain.
What to Expect:
The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed. If there is major concern, see an ophthalmologist (who specializes in eye problems).
Medical history questions documenting your symptom in detail may include: - distribution
- time pattern
- aggravated by
- Is it worse after eye movement?
- What other symptoms are also present?
Physical examination will include an examination of the eyes. The doctor will check vision, eye movements, and the back of the eye with an ophthalmoscope.
Diagnostic tests that may be performed are:
A slit-lamp examination
If glaucoma is suspected, eye pressure will be checked.
After seeing your health care provider:
If a diagnosis was made by your health care provider as the cause of your symptoms, you may want to note that diagnosis in your personal medical record.
|