Eye pain is a problem for many patients. The good news is that it is not typically a sign of a serious eye condition. Knowing what your eye pain is caused by and how to treat it can help relieve your pain sooner than later.
Common Causes of Eye Pain
Pain in the eyes can be divided into two categories. Pain that occurs on the surface of the eye, ocular pain, or pain within the eye, which is called orbital pain.
Surface pain may cause an itching, burning, scratching, or gritty sensation. Common causes of ocular pain include:
- Foreign object like a piece of dirt, eyelash, or makeup in the eye
- Conjunctivitis caused by an infection or allergy
- Irritation or infection caused by leaving contacts in overnight or not properly disinfecting lenses
- Corneal abrasion
- Blepharitis or a sty
- Eye strain
Orbital pain may also be caused by various reasons, including:
- Eye pain that is a side effect of a migraine or sinus infection
- Iritis, which is an inflammation in the eye’s iris
- Injury to the eye
- Optic neuritis that may be accompanied by a loss of vision
- Acute angle closure glaucoma, which is typically accompanied by headache, nausea, and loss of vision
How is Eye Pain Treated?
Often, eye pain may resolve on its own with the help of rest, warm compresses, or soothing eye drops. When pain is accompanied by eye discharge or intense pain occurs, it is best to consult with an eye doctor right away because treatment, such as antibiotics or flushing may be needed.
Always contact your eye doctor if you experience severe pain in your eye or pain from an injury or exposure to chemicals. Pain accompanied with a sudden loss or change in vision, abdominal pain, or vomiting requires immediate medical attention to prevent permanent vision loss.
If you experience eye pain, do not hesitate to contact Valley Eyecare Center. Call us at (602) 955-2700 to book an appointment with one of our eye doctors.
