Why Are My Eyes Hurting?

Eye pain can be both frustrating and unsettling, especially when you’re unsure why it’s happening. Whether it’s a sharp sting, a persistent ache, or sensitivity to light, eye pain can interfere with your daily life and hinder your productivity. At Wink Eye Care, our years of experience have shown us the serious consequences that can arise from neglecting eye pain, and we’re here to help you avoid them. In this blog, we delve into the common causes of eye discomfort, share practical lifestyle tips to alleviate it, and guide you on when it’s time to seek professional care.

Common Causes of Eye Pain

Identifying the source of your eye pain is the first step to finding the right solution. Below are the most common culprits, along with their symptoms and causes.  

1. Eye Strain  

Symptoms: Tired, sore eyes; difficulty focusing; headaches.  

Eye strain often results from overuse of digital screens, incorrect prescription glasses, or prolonged focus on an object without breaks. This condition is increasingly common as more people work and socialize online. Research estimates that nearly 50% of people suffer from this condition.

2. Dry Eyes  

Symptoms: Itchy, burning, or gritty feelings in the eyes.  

Dry eye syndrome occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. Common triggers include prolonged screen use, air-conditioned environments, or certain medications.  

3. Foreign Objects 

Symptoms: Sudden irritation, redness, and a strong urge to blink.  

Dust, sand, or other small particles can get lodged in your eye, causing discomfort. If not removed, foreign objects can scratch the cornea, leading to further pain and sensitivity.  

4. Allergies  

Symptoms: Red, watery, or itchy eyes, often accompanied by sneezing or a runny nose.  

Allergic reactions to pollen, dust, pet dander, or mold can affect your eyes. These symptoms often worsen during allergy season or with exposure to allergens.  

5. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)  

Symptoms: Red, inflamed eyes with a sticky yellow or green discharge.  

This condition, caused by either bacterial, viral infections, or allergies, affects the conjunctiva—the clear tissue covering the white part of your eye. Conjunctivitis is highly contagious and should be treated promptly.  

6. Corneal Abrasions  

Symptoms: A sharp, stabbing pain and excessive tearing.  

A corneal abrasion occurs when there is a scratch or injury on the surface of your cornea. Even a tiny scratch can cause significant discomfort.  

7. Glaucoma  

Symptoms (particularly for acute angle-closure glaucoma): Severe pain, nausea, vomiting, and blurred vision.  

Glaucoma involves increased pressure in the eye that can damage the optic nerve. While most forms develop slowly, one type—acute angle-closure glaucoma—can cause sudden, severe symptoms and requires immediate attention.  

8. Iritis/Uveitis  

Symptoms: Red eye, blurred vision, and pain that seems to come from inside the eye.  

Iritis refers to inflammation of the iris, while uveitis affects other parts of the eye’s middle layer. This condition is often due to trauma, infection, or autoimmune disorders and should be assessed immediately.  

9. Optic Neuritis  

Symptoms: Eye pain and vision loss.  

This occurs when the optic nerve becomes inflamed, often due to infections or autoimmune conditions. It can significantly impact your vision and requires prompt treatment.  

10. Sinusitis  

Symptoms: Pressure and pain behind or below the eyes.  

Though not directly related to the eye, sinus infections can create pain around your eyes, often felt as pressure in the sinuses behind or above them.  

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and are unsure of the cause, seeing an eye care professional is essential for diagnosis and treatment.  

Lifestyle Changes and Home Remedies for Eye Pain

The good news is many instances of eye pain can be prevented or alleviated with some simple lifestyle changes. Below are a few practical tips to keep your eyes healthy and comfortable.  

• Follow the 20-20-20 Rule  

To combat eye strain from digital screens, take a 20-second break every 20 minutes to look at something 20 feet away. This relaxes your eye muscles and helps prevent overuse.  

• Optimize Your Work Environment  

Ensure your workspace is well-lit but not overly bright. Position your screen at eye level and about an arm’s length away to reduce strain and maintain good posture while working.  

• Stay Hydrated and Use Artificial Tears  

Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated, which helps maintain healthy tear production. If you experience dryness, artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can provide relief.  

• Wear Protective Eyewear  

If you’re doing activities that might expose your eyes to debris or strong sunlight, wear safety glasses or sunglasses with UV protection. This is especially important for outdoor work, sports, or risky DIY tasks.  

• Keep Allergens at Bay  

Wash your hands frequently, avoid rubbing your eyes, and use antihistamine drops during allergy seasons to minimize allergy-related eye discomfort.  

When to Seek Professional Help

While many cases of eye pain can be managed at home, some symptoms may indicate more serious conditions that require immediate medical attention. You should seek help from an eye care professional if you experience any of the following:  

• Severe pain that doesn’t improve with rest or over-the-counter treatments.  
• Sudden vision changes like blurred or double vision.  
• Redness, swelling, or discharge that persists for more than a day.  
• Light sensitivity or headaches accompanying eye pain.  
• Any pain that appears to originate from inside the eye.  

Protect Your Vision Today

Your eyes are incredibly important—not just for seeing the world around you but for maintaining your overall quality of life. Eye pain can signal a variety of issues, from minor irritations to serious health conditions. It’s important to stay proactive – if your eyes are feeling sore or you’re concerned about your vision, don’t leave it to chance. Reach out to Wink Eye Care today to schedule a comprehensive eye exam and receive the expert care you deserve.