Maryland Eye Associates
800 Prince Frederick Boulevard
Prince Frederick, MD 20678
Causes Of Eye Pain
There are multiple causes and symptoms of eye pain. Eye pain can be associated with a dull ache, sharp shooting pain, headache, gritty sensation, and/or light sensitivity. Although there are many eye conditions that can cause these symptoms, surrounding sinus congestion, tooth decay, and migraines are other common causes of pain in or around the eye.
Among eye conditions, surface irritation is one of the main sources of eye pain. This can occur as a result of conjunctivitis, blepharitis, dry eyes, or corneal damage. If pain is mild and associated with redness of the eye, it may be from conjunctivitis. Conjunctivitis can be due to bacteria, viruses, or allergies. Pink eye is a common term for viral conjunctivitis that can take a few weeks or more for symptoms to completely resolve.
Another common cause of eye pain is a condition called blepharitis. This occurs when the oil glands in the eyelid become clogged or there is excess crusting at the base of the eyelashes. This causes inflammation on the surface of the eye and eyelid. If the clogged oil glands get larger, a stye or chalazion may develop, which appears as a bump in the eyelid. It is often red and tender. Basic treatment includes warm compresses on the eyelids followed by lid massages. In severe cases, blepharitis can cause eyelid or corneal infections. If pain persists or eyelid swelling and redness worsen, a prompt visit with the ophthalmologist is recommended.
Dry eye syndrome is another common cause of surface irritation that is often described as a sharp, shooting or dull, achy pain. Symptoms are often worse at the end of the day and may be associated with intermittent blurring of vision. Basic treatment includes lubrication with over-the-counter artificial tear drops and/or ointments. If eye pain persists, your ophthalmologist may prescribe additional prescription drops or suggest other procedures to improve symptoms.
More severe eye pain may result from damage to the cornea or other structures inside the eye. The cornea contains numerous nerve endings for its small area. Damage to this tissue from corneal abrasions, foreign bodies, or ulcers can be extremely painful. Iritis, or inflammation of the iris (the colored part of the eye), is another condition that can cause extreme pain, redness and light sensitivity. In rare cases, eye pain may also be a result of inflammation in the orbit or optic nerve behind the eye.
Severe eye pain may also occur in an uncommon type of glaucoma called acute narrow angle glaucoma. Patients with this condition have an abnormal eye anatomy that can cause a sudden increase in intra-ocular pressure. Symptoms include sudden severe pain, blurred vision, and nausea. If left untreated, permanent damage to the eye and vision may occur.
A full eye exam is recommended in all patients with persistent eye pain to rule out intra-ocular disease and to obtain treatment where indicated. Any extreme eye pain or pain associated with sustained vision loss should be evaluated and treated by your ophthalmologist or emergency room doctor promptly.
