Key takeaways
- Various things can cause eye pain, including corneal disorders, injuries, eyestrain, foreign objects in the eye, glaucoma, and inflammation.
- Eye pain may vary depending on the part of the eye affected. Parts of the eye include the cornea, the white of the eye (sclera), and a thin layer that covers it called the conjunctiva. The colored part of the eye is the iris.
- It is important to speak with a doctor if someone has persistent or severe eye pain. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can relieve pain and prevent irreversible vision loss.
The type and severity of eye pain may help indicate the underlying cause. The muscles that control the eye, the nerves, and the eyelids can also be sources of eye pain.
Since so many factors can cause eye pain, it is a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis.
This article explains some potential causes of eye pain and outlines some general eye care tips.
A problem with the cornea is one of the most common causes of eye pain. The cornea is the outermost layer of the eye. It has a clear dome-shaped surface that covers the front of the eye.
The cornea acts as a direct barrier that keeps out dirt, germs, and other foreign particles that could harm the eye. The cornea is also very helpful in filtering out damaging ultraviolet light (UV) from the sun.
Diseases that can affect the cornea include:
- hormone disorders, such as:
- infections, such as:
- autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, such as:
- lupus
- various types of arthritis
- multiple sclerosis
- genetic disorders, such as:
Healthcare professionals may need to conduct a thorough eye examination to diagnose corneal disease or other eye disorders. Treatment may depend on the type of disorder a person has.
Just like other body parts, the cornea can heal from minor injuries or scratches. The area usually heals on its own with no lasting impact on vision.
However, more significant injuries can cause symptoms such as ongoing pain and corneal scarring, resulting in a haze on the cornea that can impair vision. People who have a deep injury may also experience:
- sensitivity to light
- reduced vision or blurry vision
- redness or inflammation in the eye
- headache
- bulging eye
- inability to move the eye in all directions
It is important to speak with a doctor if someone has an injury to the eye. Treatment can help restore and protect their vision.
Foreign objects in the eye are one of the most common causes of eye pain. These objects may cause irritation and affect a person’s vision until someone removes them from the eye.
People may be able to remove foreign objects from the eye by washing the eye with a sterile saline solution.
The risk of infection and scarring
After removal, foreign objects may leave minor scratches on the cornea. If scratches are present, a doctor may recommend treatments or home care strategies to prevent an infection.
A healthcare professional may also be able to prescribe pain-relieving eye drops and recommend a follow-up examination to monitor any injuries.
Glaucoma involves
Glaucoma can cause eye pain, vision changes, nausea, and more. Early diagnosis is key to slowing progression and preventing permanent vision loss.
The type of treatment depends on the severity of glaucoma. Doctors may prescribe eye drops to decrease eye pressure. Surgery may be necessary if the eye pressure is extremely high or if eye drops are ineffective.
Uveitis refers to inflammation anywhere in the pigmented lining of the eye. This section of the eye is called the uvea or uveal tract.
The area
Symptoms of uveitis include:
- eye ache
- redness in the eye
- loss of vision or blurry vision
Doctors may diagnose uveitis during a physical examination using a slit lamp. The condition can cause permanent damage to the eye, so early treatment is important.
Treatment typically includes corticosteroids, usually in the form of eye drops. Depending on the type of uveitis, other medications or surgical procedures may be necessary.
Endophthalmitis is an eye infection that occurs
The infection is typically due to bacteria, although fungi may also be the cause. Symptoms of endophthalmitis include:
- severe eye pain
- redness in the white of the eye
- sensitivity to bright light
- decreased vision
- eyelid swelling
Endophthalmitis is a medical emergency. Prompt treatment is necessary to reduce the risk of vision loss.
Treatment may include antibiotics, corticosteroids, and surgery. During surgery, doctors can remove the infected tissue from the inside of the eye, which may help to stop the infection.
A 2024 review suggests that eye pain is one of the most common symptoms of digital eye strain. Digital eye strain occurs when people use digital devices for prolonged or excessive amounts of time.
Digital eye strain is increasingly common as people use electronic devices more often and in more parts of their lives. One review suggests it affects up to 69% of the population.
People can also experience eyestrain from non-digital sources. For example, reading for long periods or trying to concentrate on a task in low light may lead to eyestrain symptoms.
Dryness can cause the eyes to feel sore and painful. The United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS) suggests that the risk of dry eyes may increase in adults over 50 years of age. Certain medications and environments can also increase the risk.
Treatment for dry eyes
If someone’s environment contributes, a doctor may recommend changes to improve the environment, such as using a humidifier.
It is a good idea to contact a doctor if people have persistent or severe eye pain. Speaking with a doctor is especially important if people have other symptoms, particularly changes in their vision.
Treatment can correct many eye problems if a doctor diagnoses them early, but some can lead to irreversible damage or vision loss if people do not have timely treatment.
To diagnose the cause of someone’s pain, a doctor will examine the eye. They may use a slit lamp, which allows them to examine the eye under high magnification. They may also use eye drops called fluorescein to temporarily stain the cornea, making it easier for the doctor to see.
Regular eye exams can help detect any problems before a person develops severe symptoms.
When to seek emergency treatment
According to the
- eye pain
- sudden blurry vision or loss of vision
- double vision
- redness or swelling of the eyelid
- lots of eye floaters or flashes of light
The following tips may help people take care of their eyes:
- wash the hands regularly, especially before touching any part of the eyes
- avoid sharing make-up, contact lens solution, eye drops, or anything else that could spread bacteria
- follow the necessary instructions when applying and removing contact lenses
- clean reusable contact lenses properly
- avoid wearing contact lenses for too long, when sleeping, or when the eye is very dry
- wear protective eyewear during any activity in which debris could easily get into the eye
- take regular breaks from screens and other activities that involve a lot of concentration
- protect the eyes from sunlight with sunglasses that block UV light, and avoid looking directly at the sun
- attend regular eye exams
Various things can cause eye pain, including injuries, foreign objects in the eye, corneal disorders, glaucoma, uveitis, eyestrain, and dry eyes.
The underlying cause will determine the most suitable treatment. Therefore, it is important for people to attend regular eye check-ups and speak with a healthcare professional if they have ongoing or severe eye pain.
General eye care tips may help prevent pain. People can protect their eyes from sunlight and debris, follow proper use instructions for contact lenses, and take regular breaks from screens.