Key Takeaways
- Eye pain can come from a variety of issues, like dryness, long screen time, or sinus pressure.
- Migraines and infections can sometimes create deeper pain and should be assessed by a medical professional.
- Sudden pain, vision changes, or pain with fever indicates the need for prompt professional attention.
- An eye exam can help your optometrist understand what may be contributing to your discomfort.
That tired, achy feeling around your eyes can be very distracting. After a full day of emails, driving, and dinner prep, your eyes have been working hard. Eye pain can have several causes, so it is important to see an eye doctor to receive a proper diagnosis.
Pain in and behind the eye can come from factors like dryness, eye strain, or sinus pressure, but it can also point to something that needs a closer look from our team at Chestermere Optometry.
Common Causes of Eye Pain
There are many factors that can contribute to eye discomfort. It can be tempting to attribute pain to dry eye or a migraine, but there are other causes. Having a general understanding of each one can help you know where to start the conversation when you come for a visit to our eye doctor.
Migraines and Headaches
Everyone experiences migraine pain differently, but it can often feel like a throbbing pain behind 1 eye that makes it hard to focus on work. You might notice bright lights bother you or your vision turns a little blurry. When these signs show up together, an eye exam can help you sort out what may be going on.
Dry Eye and Eye Strain
While dry eye is not typically associated with intense eye pain, dryness can sometimes make your eyes feel gritty or scratchy, which can be uncomfortable. If you have been noticing stinging, excessively watery, or gritty eyes, it is worth coming in for an eye exam so our optometrist can help you find a path towards comfort.
In today’s increasingly digital world, digital eye strain can be a common cause of eye discomfort. When we focus on close objects for long periods, the muscles responsible for focusing inside the eye work continuously, which can contribute to eye strain and, in some cases, pain. If you notice that your eye pain seems to get worse the more you use screens, or if it eases when you take a break from the computer, it is worth discussing with your eye doctor.
Foreign Body or Corneal Abrasion
Your cornea is the clear outer layer of your eye, and when it is scratched by a piece of dust or debris, it can be painful. Many minor corneal abrasions heal within a few days, but persistent pain, worsening symptoms, or changes in vision should be assessed promptly.
Sinus Pressure
The sinuses sit very close to your eyes, so when they’re inflamed from a cold, allergies, or a sinus infection, you may feel aching or pressure around or behind your eyes. The discomfort often becomes more noticeable when you bend over or move your head quickly, and it may come with nasal congestion, facial tenderness, or a feeling of fullness in your cheeks or forehead.
Although sinus pressure is not an eye condition itself, it is important not to assume that it is the cause of your discomfort. If the pain is severe, affects your vision, or does not improve as your sinus symptoms settle, it is a good idea to book an eye exam to rule out other potential causes.
Signs That Indicate the Need for Immediate Attention
Some cases of eye pain can be serious and may require immediate professional attention to preserve your sight. It is important to be aware of the potential signs of an eye emergency so you know when to look for prompt medical care. This can include symptoms like:
- Severe sudden or sharp pain that appears out of nowhere
- Any changes in vision or blind spots
- Pain paired with nausea or fever
- New flashes or floaters
If you notice any of these, an optometrist in Chestermere can take a closer look and guide your next steps.
How Our Team in Chestermere Can Help
It is important not to guess what your eyes need. Symptoms of various problems can overlap, so assuming a diagnosis can mean you end up treating the wrong problem. Instead, our team can provide a thorough assessment and give you clear answers tailored to your situation.
What Happens During Your Visit
During your appointment, our eye care team will ask you about your eye health history and any medications you may take. We will also learn about your life, including daily habits, sleep, and your profession. We use these answers to guide our exam, which is a simple, noninvasive process that gives us a full picture of your eye health.
Why Seeing an Optometrist Matters
Care that fits your routine makes a real difference. A working parent juggling laptops and lunchboxes has different needs than a child learning to read, and our team understands that. From a child’s first exam to a teenager’s first set of contact lenses, Chestermere Optometry is designed to support your whole family under 1 roof.
Schedule Your Eye Exam
If you are experiencing eye pain, our team at Chestermere Optometry wants you to know that you do not have to manage it alone. We can assess your eyes and help you find answers. Book your appointment today and give your family the clear, comfortable vision they deserve.
