Five Causes of Eye Pain | Pain Awareness Month

Eye pain can signal many different eye conditions, from minor to those that threaten vision. In many cases, additional symptoms help narrow down the cause.

September is Pain Awareness Month. It is a reminder to not ignore eye pain and to see an eye doctor to identify the cause. In many cases, the earlier treatment starts, the better the outcome. Keep reading below to learn about possible causes of eye pain. 
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Pink eye

Pink eye is a very common type of eye infection. It can occur due to allergies or viral and bacterial infections. It involves inflammation of the mucous membrane that lines the surface of the eye and inner eyelids.

Symptoms often include:

• Eye pain
• Redness
• Watery eyes
• Discharge from the eyes
• Sensitivity to light

Pink eye due to a bacterial or viral infection is contagious. Treatment may vary depending on the cause. In some instances, treatment is not needed, and pink eye clears up on its own in a week or two. Treatment options may include:

• Antibiotic eye drops
• Warm compresses
• Artificial tears

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Corneal scratch 

A corneal abrasion involves a scrape or scratch of the surface of the cornea. Corneal abrasions can range from minor to severe. Various things can lead to a corneal abrasion, such as scratching the eye with a fingernail when putting in contacts.

Symptoms include:

• Pain
• A gritty feeling in the eye
• Redness
• Watery eyes
• Blurred vision

Treatment may not be needed for mild corneal abrasions, but it is best to see an eye doctor. Treatment options may include:

• Wearing an eyepatch to prevent blinking
• Moistening eye drops
• Antibiotic eye drops 

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Foreign body 

A foreign body in the eye is a common cause of eye pain. A foreign body may include something small, such as a few grains of sand, a bug, or dirt, but it can also include a projectile, such as wood and metal shavings.

Symptoms may include:

• Eye pain
• Redness
• Blurred vision in the affected eye

Treatment involves removing the foreign body. If the object is small, such as sand, you may be able to flush it out of your eye. If in doubt, it is best to see an eye doctor to make sure you do not scratch your eye. 
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Dry eyes 

Dry eyes can occur for a variety of reasons, such as hormonal changes, genetics, and as a symptom of another condition. According to the National Eye Institute, people over age 50, females, and people that wear contact lenses have an increased risk of developing dry eyes.

Symptoms may include the following:

• Pain
• A scratchy feeling
• Sensitivity to light
• Redness

Treatment may include managing any medical conditions contributing to dry eyes. Additional treatment may include:

• Drugs to reduce inflammation
• Artificial tears
• Medications that stimulate tear production 

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Glaucoma 

One type of glaucoma, called angle-closure glaucoma, may cause eye pain. This form of glaucoma develops when the iris bulges and narrows the drainage of fluid in the eye, which causes an increase in eye pressure.

Symptoms include

• Severe headache
• Eye pain
• Nausea and vomitting
• Halos around lights
• Blurred vision
• Eye redness

This form of glaucoma can threaten vision and is a medical emergency. Prompt treatment is critical. Treatment usually includes medication, such as a topical steroid or beta-blockers. 
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When to seek emergency care

Sometimes minor eye pain resolves on its own quickly, but there are other times when it is vital to seek emergency medical care. Seek care immediately if you develop:

• Severe headache
• Eye pain
• Blurred vision

In some cases, eye pain is not a cause for concern, but in other instances, it can indicate an underlying injury or health issue. Don’t hesitate to seek help. If you would like to ask whether an appointment with one of our eye doctors would be appropriate at this time, call our office at 508-746-8600.