Eye pain is a common symptom that can affect people of all ages. It can feel like a dull ache, sharp sting, aching, throbbing, or a persistent feeling of irritation. It can happen in one or both eyes. While some causes are minor and temporary, others may require prompt medical attention.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 2.2 billion people worldwide live with some form of vision impairment. Many of these issues begin with mild symptoms, such as discomfort or pain in the eye.
Furthermore, in the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that millions of adults are at risk of vision loss, but many fail to seek timely care.
Understanding what causes eye pain and knowing when to seek help goes a long way to protecting your sight. Here are the basics you need to know.
Common Causes of Eye Pain and Discomfort
1. Dry eye syndrome
Eye discomfort is very commonly caused by dryness in the eye. It happens when your eyes do not produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly. The symptoms of dry eye syndrome include a gritty or burning sensation, redness, and sensitivity to light. It is more common in older adults and people who spend long hours looking at screens.
2. Eye strain
Prolonged use of computers, smartphones, or reading without breaks can cause eye strain. This condition is also known as computer vision syndrome. It leads to aching eyes, blurry vision, and headaches. Experts have shared that adjusting screen brightness, taking regular breaks, and using proper lighting can help reduce the strain.
3. Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is an inflammation or infection of the eye’s outer membrane. It causes redness, itchiness, pain, and discharge. Conjunctivitis is caused by viruses, bacteria, or allergies, and it is highly contagious if infectious. Proper hygiene and timely treatment are essential to speed up recovery.
4. Foreign body or corneal scratch
Corneal abrasion or scratch can be caused by something as seemingly insignificant as a speck of dust, an eyelash, or even overwearing contact lenses. Symptoms of a corneal scratch include sharp eye pain, tearing, and sensitivity to light. You must never rub your eyes if something is stuck. Instead, seek immediate medical help.
5. Increased eye pressure
Elevated pressure inside the eye, known as ocular hypertension, can lead to discomfort and may be a warning sign of glaucoma, a condition that can damage the optic nerve. While ocular hypertension doesn’t always cause symptoms, some people may experience a feeling of pressure, mild pain, or headaches. Regular eye exams are crucial for detecting this silent condition early and preventing long-term vision loss.
6. Acute glaucoma
A rare but serious cause of eye pain, acute angle-closure glaucoma can cause sudden, intense pain, vision loss, headache, and nausea. This is a medical emergency. Without immediate treatment, it can lead to permanent blindness.
Read more articles: Seven Foods to Boost Your Eye Health
When to See a Doctor
When you experience eye pain or discomfort, you should see a healthcare professional immediately if:
- you have sudden or severe eye pain,
- you have vision changes,
- your eye is red, swollen, or leaking fluid,
- there’s a foreign object in your eye, and
- over-the-counter drops have not improved your symptoms within 1–2 day(s).
Eye pain can come from a variety of causes—from something as simple as dry eyes to more serious conditions like glaucoma or infection. Understanding the cause of eye pain can help you make better decisions about your eye health. If you’re ever unsure or your symptoms don’t improve, don’t wait until it’s too late. Your eyes are precious, and protecting your vision is a top priority.
Early diagnosis and treatment can make all the difference in protecting your sight. Our excellent team at Prime Plus Medical in Canggu is ready to assist you 24/7.
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