Why Does My Eye Hurt? Causes, Symptoms, and What to Do

Experiencing eye pain can be unsettling, leading many to wonder, why does my eye hurt? It’s a common concern that can range from a mild irritation to a symptom of a more serious underlying condition. 

This article will help you understand the different types of eye pain, common causes, when to seek emergency care, and what treatment options are available.

Understanding the Types of Eye Pain

Eye pain isn’t always the same; it can manifest in various ways, offering clues about its origin. Generally, eye pain can be categorized into two main types: surface pain and deeper, orbital pain.

Surface Pain (Ocular Pain)

Ocular pain refers to discomfort that originates on the outer surface of the eye. This type of pain often feels like a scratching, burning, or itching sensation. It can be accompanied by redness, excessive tearing, or a feeling that something is in your eye. 

Common causes include foreign bodies, infections like conjunctivitis, or minor injuries to the cornea.

Deeper Pain (Orbital Pain)

Orbital pain is typically described as a dull ache, throbbing, or pressure from within or behind the eye. 

This kind of pain can sometimes indicate more significant issues, such as glaucoma, optic neuritis, or even sinus infections. When you feel a sharp pain in eye that seems to come from deep within, it warrants closer attention.

Common Causes of Eye Pain

Eye pain can stem from a multitude of factors, from everyday irritations to more serious medical conditions. Understanding these causes can help you identify potential triggers and know when to seek professional help.

Injury and Trauma

Physical injury to the eye is a frequent cause of pain. This can include corneal abrasions (scratches on the clear front surface of the eye), chemical splashes, or blunt trauma from an impact. Even a small foreign object, like a speck of dust or an eyelash, can cause significant discomfort.

Infections

Infections are another common culprit behind eye pain. Conditions such as conjunctivitis (pink eye), keratitis (an infection of the cornea), and blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids) can all lead to pain, redness, and discharge. 

These infections often require medical treatment to prevent complications.

Eye Strain and Dryness

Eye strain is increasingly prevalent in today’s screen-dominated era. Prolonged use of computers, smartphones, or reading in poor lighting can lead to tired, aching eyes. 

This is often intensified by dry eyes, a condition where your eyes don’t produce enough quality tears to keep them lubricated. Symptoms include burning, stinging, and a gritty sensation.

Other Causes of Eye Pain

Beyond the most common reasons, other factors can contribute to eye pain. These include allergies, which can cause itchy, watery, and painful eyes; issues with contact lenses, such as improper fit or overwearing; and conditions like styes or chalazia, which are painful lumps on the eyelid.

When Is It an Emergency? Recognizing Serious Symptoms

While many instances of eye pain are not severe, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. Knowing when to seek emergency care is crucial for preserving your vision and overall eye health. 

If you experience any of the following, please contact St Thomas Eye Hospital or an eye clinic near you without delay:

• Sudden, severe eye pain: Especially if it comes on abruptly and is intense.
• Vision changes: Any sudden loss of vision, blurry vision, or seeing halos around lights.
• Pain with headache, fever, or extreme light sensitivity: These can be signs of more serious conditions.
• Eye pain following a chemical splash or physical injury: Do not delay seeking help for these types of incidents.
• Nausea or vomiting accompanying eye pain: This can indicate conditions like acute glaucoma.
• Inability to move your eye: Or pain with eye movement.
• A foreign object visibly embedded in your eye: Do not attempt to remove it yourself.

Home Care & Professional Treatment for Eye Pain

For mild cases of eye pain, some home care measures can provide relief. However, it’s important to remember that these are not substitutes for professional medical advice, especially if your symptoms persist or worsen.

Safe Home Care Measures

• Rest your eyes: If eye strain is the cause, take frequent breaks using the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds).
• Warm or cold compresses: A clean, warm compress can soothe discomfort from styes or dry eyes, while a cold compress can reduce swelling and irritation.
• Adjust lighting: Ensure your workspace or reading area has adequate, non-glaring lighting.
• Over-the-counter artificial tears: These can help alleviate symptoms of dry eyes.
• Avoid contact lenses: If you wear contacts, switch to glasses until your symptoms resolve.

What Professional Treatment May Involve

When home remedies aren’t enough, or if your eye pain causes are more serious, professional treatment is essential. At St Thomas Eye Hospital, our specialists can accurately diagnose the problem and recommend the most effective course of action. Treatment may include:

• Prescription eye drops: Antibiotic, antiviral, or anti-inflammatory drops for infections or inflammation.
• Removal of foreign bodies: Safely extracting objects from the eye.
• Medications: Oral medications for underlying conditions.
• Corrective lenses: If uncorrected vision is contributing to eye strain.
• Specialized procedures: For conditions like glaucoma or severe injuries.

Frequently Asked Questions About Eye Pain

Here are some common questions patients ask about eye pain:

Q: Why does my eye hurt when I blink? A: This is often a symptom of dry eyes, a foreign body on the surface of your eye, or a minor corneal abrasion. If it persists, it’s best to get it checked.

Q: Can stress cause eye pain? A: While stress doesn’t directly cause eye pain, it can contribute to eye strain, tension headaches, and even dry eyes, all of which can lead to discomfort.

Q: Is a red eye always an emergency? A: Not always. Redness can be due to allergies or minor irritation. However, if redness is accompanied by severe pain, vision changes, or discharge, it could indicate a more serious condition requiring immediate attention.

Q: How long does eye strain last? A: Eye strain typically resolves with rest and by addressing the underlying cause, such as adjusting screen time or lighting. If it persists, an eye exam may be needed.

Q: What causes pain behind the eye? A: Pain behind the eye can be caused by various factors, including sinus infections, migraines, optic neuritis, or even more serious orbital conditions. It’s important to have this type of pain evaluated by an eye care professional.

Your Vision, Our Priority at St Thomas Eye Hospital

Understanding why your eyes hurt is the first step towards finding relief and ensuring your long-term eye health. At St Thomas Eye Hospital, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and expert eye care. 

If you are experiencing persistent or severe eye pain, or have any concerns about your vision, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our experienced team. Your eyes are precious, and we are here to help you protect them.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment. St Thomas Eye Hospital does not endorse self-diagnosis or self-treatment based on the information provided herein.