What are the common causes of pain around one eye socket. How can you differentiate between various eye pain conditions. What treatments are available for eye socket discomfort. When should you seek medical attention for eye pain.

Understanding Eye Socket Pain: An Overview

Pain around the eye socket can be a concerning and uncomfortable experience. This type of discomfort can stem from various underlying causes, ranging from common headaches to more serious medical conditions. Understanding the potential reasons behind eye socket pain is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Eye socket pain, also known as periorbital pain, can manifest in different ways. Some individuals may experience a dull ache, while others might feel sharp, stabbing sensations. The pain may be constant or intermittent, and it can be accompanied by other symptoms such as visual disturbances, swelling, or redness.

Common Causes of Eye Socket Pain

Several factors can contribute to pain around the eye socket. Here are some of the most frequent causes:

• Migraines and other types of headaches
• Sinus infections
• Graves’ disease
• Optic neuritis
• Dental issues
• Facial injuries
• Eye strain
• Cluster headaches

Each of these conditions has unique characteristics and associated symptoms that can help in identifying the root cause of the eye socket pain.

Migraines and Headaches

Migraines are often associated with pain and pressure around the eyes. This type of headache can cause intense, throbbing pain that may be accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and visual disturbances.

Are migraines always accompanied by eye pain? Not necessarily. While eye pain is a common symptom of migraines, some individuals may experience migraines without any eye discomfort. The pain associated with migraines can vary in intensity and location from person to person.

Sinus Infections and Eye Pain

Sinus infections, also known as sinusitis, can cause significant discomfort around the eyes. The sinuses are hollow spaces in the skull located above, below, and between the eyes. When these spaces become inflamed or infected, it can lead to pressure and pain in the surrounding areas, including the eye sockets.

Can a sinus infection cause eye socket pain? Absolutely. In fact, one of the primary symptoms of a sinus infection is throbbing pain and pressure around the eyeballs. This is particularly true for sphenoid sinusitis, which is specifically linked to aches behind the eyes.

Graves’ Disease and Its Impact on Eye Health

Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland. While it primarily impacts thyroid function, it can also have significant effects on eye health. In some cases, Graves’ disease can cause the tissues, muscles, and fat behind the eye to swell, leading to a condition known as Graves’ ophthalmopathy.

How does Graves’ disease affect the eyes? The swelling caused by Graves’ disease can result in several eye-related symptoms, including:

• A feeling of pressure behind the eyes
• Eye irritation and dryness
• Excessive tearing
• Bulging of the eyes (exophthalmos)
• Light sensitivity
• Double vision
• Limited eye movement

These symptoms can vary in severity and may not be present in all cases of Graves’ disease. However, if you experience any of these symptoms along with eye socket pain, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Optic Neuritis: When the Optic Nerve is Affected

Optic neuritis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain. This inflammation can lead to various symptoms, including pain and temporary vision loss.

What causes optic neuritis? Optic neuritis can be triggered by various factors, including:

• Infections
• Autoimmune disorders
• Multiple sclerosis (MS)
• Certain medications

Interestingly, optic neuritis is often associated with multiple sclerosis. In fact, it’s estimated that around 50% of people with MS experience optic neuritis at some point, and it’s frequently one of the first signs of the disease.

Symptoms of Optic Neuritis

The symptoms of optic neuritis can vary, but often include:

• Pain in the eye, especially when moving it
• Temporary vision loss or blurred vision
• Reduced color perception
• Flashing lights when moving the eyes

If you experience these symptoms along with eye socket pain, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent long-term vision problems.

Dental Issues and Eye Socket Pain: An Unexpected Connection

While it might seem unrelated, dental problems can sometimes cause pain that radiates to the eye socket area. This is due to the complex network of nerves in the face and head.

How can a toothache cause eye pain? When a tooth becomes infected or severely decayed, the pain can spread to nearby areas of the face. The trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for sensation in the face, can transmit pain signals from the teeth to other areas, including the eye socket.

In some cases, a dental abscess or severe infection can even cause swelling that affects the eye area. For example, a case study published in the Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences reported a patient whose toothache led to swelling of the left eye socket after just two days.

Facial Injuries and Their Impact on Eye Health

Injuries to the face, whether from accidents, sports, or other incidents, can often result in pain around the eye socket. The delicate structures surrounding the eye are particularly vulnerable to trauma.

What types of facial injuries can cause eye socket pain? Several types of injuries can lead to eye socket pain, including:

• Fractures of the orbital bone
• Contusions (bruises) around the eye area
• Lacerations near the eye
• Blunt force trauma to the face

In cases of facial injury, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention, especially if there’s any change in vision or severe pain. Some injuries may require surgical intervention to prevent long-term complications.

Diagnosing the Cause of Eye Socket Pain

Given the wide range of potential causes for eye socket pain, accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. Healthcare providers may use various methods to determine the underlying cause of the pain.

What diagnostic tools are used for eye socket pain? Depending on the suspected cause, doctors may employ several diagnostic techniques, including:

• Physical examination of the eye and surrounding structures
• Visual acuity tests
• Imaging studies such as CT scans or MRIs
• Blood tests to check for underlying conditions or infections
• Neurological examinations

In some cases, referral to a specialist such as an ophthalmologist, neurologist, or ENT doctor may be necessary for further evaluation and specialized testing.

The Importance of a Comprehensive Eye Exam

A comprehensive eye exam can provide valuable information about the health of your eyes and potentially uncover the cause of eye socket pain. During this exam, an eye care professional will assess various aspects of your eye health, including:

• Visual acuity
• Eye muscle balance
• Peripheral vision
• Pupil response to light
• Intraocular pressure
• The health of the retina and optic nerve

These tests can help identify conditions such as glaucoma, retinal problems, or optic nerve issues that might be contributing to eye socket pain.

Treatment Options for Eye Socket Pain

The treatment for eye socket pain depends largely on the underlying cause. Once a diagnosis has been made, your healthcare provider can recommend an appropriate treatment plan.

What are some common treatments for eye socket pain? Treatment options may include:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers for mild pain
• Prescription medications for specific conditions (e.g., antibiotics for infections, steroids for inflammation)
• Lifestyle modifications to reduce triggers (for migraines or tension headaches)
• Warm or cold compresses to alleviate discomfort
• Surgical intervention for severe cases or structural issues

It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations and not to self-diagnose or self-treat persistent eye socket pain.

Managing Pain at Home

While it’s crucial to seek professional medical advice for persistent or severe eye socket pain, there are some steps you can take at home to manage mild discomfort:

• Rest your eyes regularly, especially if you spend long hours looking at screens
• Use artificial tears to keep your eyes lubricated
• Apply a warm compress to the affected area for sinus-related pain
• Practice good hygiene to prevent eye infections
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle with proper nutrition and hydration

Remember, these home remedies should not replace professional medical advice, especially if the pain persists or worsens.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Eye Socket Pain

While some causes of eye socket pain may resolve on their own, there are certain situations where immediate medical attention is necessary.

When should you see a doctor for eye socket pain? Seek medical care if you experience:

• Sudden, severe eye pain
• Eye pain accompanied by vision changes
• Pain that persists for more than a few days
• Eye pain with fever or other signs of infection
• Pain following an injury to the eye or face
• Eye pain with nausea or vomiting

These symptoms could indicate a serious underlying condition that requires prompt medical intervention.

Emergency Situations

In some cases, eye socket pain may be a sign of a medical emergency. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Sudden loss of vision
• Severe eye pain with redness and swelling
• Eye pain accompanied by a severe headache and confusion
• Chemical exposure to the eye
• A foreign object embedded in the eye

These situations could potentially lead to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly.

Preventing Eye Socket Pain: Proactive Measures

While not all causes of eye socket pain are preventable, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk and maintain overall eye health.

How can you prevent eye socket pain? Consider the following preventive measures:

• Practice good eye hygiene, including regular hand washing
• Wear protective eyewear during sports or hazardous activities
• Take regular breaks when using digital devices (follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds)
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise
• Manage underlying health conditions that could affect eye health
• Attend regular eye check-ups, even if you don’t wear glasses

By taking these proactive steps, you can help maintain your eye health and potentially reduce the risk of developing conditions that cause eye socket pain.

The Role of Diet in Eye Health

A healthy diet plays a crucial role in maintaining overall eye health and potentially preventing conditions that could lead to eye socket pain. Certain nutrients are particularly beneficial for eye health:

• Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fish, flaxseed, and walnuts
• Vitamin A: Present in carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach
• Vitamin C: Abundant in citrus fruits, berries, and bell peppers
• Vitamin E: Found in nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils
• Zinc: Present in oysters, beef, and pumpkin seeds
• Lutein and Zeaxanthin: Found in leafy green vegetables and eggs

Incorporating these nutrients into your diet can support overall eye health and potentially reduce the risk of certain eye conditions.

The Future of Eye Pain Treatment: Emerging Research and Technologies

As medical science advances, new treatments and diagnostic tools for eye socket pain and related conditions are continually being developed. Researchers are exploring innovative approaches to understanding and treating various causes of eye pain.

What are some promising areas of research in eye pain treatment? Some exciting developments include:

• Gene therapy for inherited eye disorders
• Advanced imaging techniques for more accurate diagnosis
• Artificial intelligence in diagnosing eye conditions
• Novel drug delivery methods for eye medications
• Stem cell therapies for regenerating damaged eye tissues

While many of these technologies are still in the research phase, they hold promise for improving the diagnosis and treatment of conditions that cause eye socket pain in the future.

Personalized Medicine in Eye Care

The concept of personalized medicine is gaining traction in various fields of healthcare, including ophthalmology. This approach takes into account an individual’s genetic makeup, lifestyle factors, and environmental influences to tailor treatment plans.

How might personalized medicine impact eye pain treatment? In the future, treatments for eye socket pain and related conditions could be customized based on:

• Genetic predisposition to certain eye conditions
• Individual response to specific medications
• Lifestyle factors that may influence eye health
• Environmental exposures that could affect the eyes

This personalized approach could lead to more effective treatments with fewer side effects, potentially improving outcomes for individuals suffering from eye socket pain.

In conclusion, eye socket pain can arise from various causes, ranging from common conditions like migraines to more serious issues such as optic neuritis or facial injuries. Understanding the potential causes, recognizing when to seek medical attention, and taking proactive steps to maintain eye health are crucial for managing and preventing eye socket pain. As research continues to advance, we can look forward to more sophisticated and personalized approaches to diagnosing and treating eye-related discomfort in the future.

Pressure behind the eyes: 6 causes and treatment

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

Ocular conditions, such as optic neuritis, can often cause pressure behind the eyes. However, other conditions that affect the head, such as migraine and infections can cause similar pressure feelings.

Here we look at the following conditions that can cause a feeling of pressure behind the eyes:

1. migraines and other headaches
2. sinus infection
3. Graves’ disease
4. optic neuritis
5. toothache
6. injury to the face

We also look at when someone should see a doctor, and what the treatment options are.

1. Migraines and other headaches

The American Migraine Foundation note that headaches and pain around the eyes often go together. However, they also point out that most headaches are classified as migraine- or tension-type, and have nothing to do with eye strain or related conditions.

Migraines are frequently associated with a feeling of pressure or pain behind the eyes.

Other symptoms of a migraine include:

• pulsing pain in the head
• nausea
• vomiting
• sensitivity to sound
• sensitivity to light
• strange lights or sounds before the onset of a headache

Other types of headache include:

• Tension headaches. There will be a sensation of tightening and pressing, rather than pulsing.
• Cluster headaches. These will last for 15–180 minutes and frequently occur up to eight times a day. Infection, swelling, or pain in areas of the face, including the eyes, is common with cluster headaches.

2. Sinus infection

The sinuses are hollow spaces in the skull, positioned above, below, behind, and between the eyes.

Problems with the sinuses often include feelings of pain in and around the face.

One of the main symptoms of a sinus infection is throbbing pain and pressure around the eyeballs. At least one type of sinus infection — sphenoid sinusitis — is linked to an ache behind the eyes.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), other symptoms of a sinus infection include:

• runny or stuffy nose
• loss of sense of smell
• headache
• pain or pressure in the face
• mucus dripping from the nose down the throat
• sore throat
• fever
• cough
• tiredness
• bad breath

3.

Graves’ disease

A result of an overactive thyroid gland, Graves’ disease can cause the tissues, muscles, and fat behind the eye to swell. This causes the eyeball to bulge from the socket and can lead to other issues, such as being unable to move the eyeball.

The swelling of the tissues behind the eye may result in a feeling of pressure.

Common eye-related symptoms of Graves’ disease include:

• a feeling of irritation in the eyes
• dry eyes
• the eyes tearing up more than usual
• the eye bulging from the socket
• sensitivity to light
• double vision
• ulcers on the eye
• loss of vision
• swelling of the eyeball
• being unable to move the eye

4. Optic neuritis

Share on PinterestOptic neuritis affects the optic nerves, which connect the eyes and the brain.

Optic neuritis is a condition in which the nerve that connects the eyes and brain becomes inflamed and swollen. Side effects can include pain and temporary loss of vision, which usually peaks within a few days and can take 4–12 weeks to improve.

Infections can trigger optic neuritis, and it is also commonly associated with multiple sclerosis (MS). Around 50 percent of all people with MS experience optic neuritis, which is often the first indication of MS.

Symptoms of optic neuritis include:

• reduced vision
• color blindness, or colors appearing less vibrant
• blurry sight, especially after the body temperature has risen
• loss of vision in one eye
• pain in the eye, especially when moving it
• the pupil reacting unusually to bright light

5. Toothache

A toothache, especially as a result of infection, may cause throbbing pain and feelings of pressure to spread to nearby parts of the face, as the surrounding nerves become affected.

For example, a 2007 case study published in the Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences concerned a person whose toothache led to a swelling of the left eye socket after 2 days. The vision in the swollen eye grew worse, and the pain increased along with the swelling.

6. Injury to the face

Injuries to the face, such as those sustained in car accidents or while playing sports, may lead to a feeling of pressure and pain behind and around the eyes.

Different types of fracture to the eye socket can cause damage to the eye muscles, nerves, and sinuses.

Some symptoms of eye socket fractures include:

• the eye appearing to either bulge or sink into the socket
• a black eye
• double vision, blurry vision, or reduced eyesight
• numbness in parts of the face around the injured eye
• swelling near and around the eye
• a flat-looking cheek, possibly with severe pain while opening the mouth

Share on PinterestSerious symptoms, such as loss of vision, should be assessed by a doctor.

Pressure behind the eyes is not a serious medical concern on its own, but it may indicate the presence of a more acute condition.

Anyone who notices symptoms such as loss of vision, bulging eyes, fever, frequent headaches, or facial swelling should see their doctor.

If the doctor is unable to make a diagnosis, they will refer the person to an appropriate expert who can investigate more thoroughly.

Some of these experts include:

• ear, nose, and throat specialists
• dental surgeons
• neurologists, specializing in brain and nerve issues
• ophthalmologists, specializing in eye issues

Some techniques that may help with a diagnosis include:

• Blood tests to determine hormone levels. Hormones produced by the thyroid are key in diagnosing Graves’ disease.
• CT scans to develop an accurate picture of the brain and organs.
• MRI scans — another method of mapping the brain and body.
• Endoscopy, which involves inserting a camera into the nose to investigate the health of the sinuses.

Successfully treating pressure behind the eyes involves addressing the underlying causes.

Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs and painkillers are safe to use. They may ease the feeling of pressure if it is not severe and does not seem to be a side effect of a more serious condition.

If the pressure is severe or comes with other symptoms, see a doctor. Following diagnosis, the doctor will prescribe any treatments needed.

These could include:

• ibuprofen, aspirin, or acetaminophen to treat headaches
• antibiotics, steroid nasal sprays, or antihistamines to treat sinus infections

The outlook for pressure behind the eyes will depend on the underlying cause.

This pressure will often be due to simple headaches or sinus conditions, which are easy to deal with and unlikely to cause complications.

However, pressure behind the eyes may be a symptom of a more serious condition, such as optic neuritis or Graves’ disease. In these cases, seek further treatment.

SHOP FOR TREATMENT OPTIONS

Some of the treatments listed in this article are available to purchase online:

• ibuprofen
• aspirin
• acetaminophen

Why Does My Eye Hurt When I Blink?

Many factors can cause pain when you blink. In some cases, the pain will regulate itself, and at other times, the pain can indicate something more severe. How do you know when to contact your optometrist? 

At Calgary Family Eye Doctors, we want our patients to experience worry-free, clear, and healthy vision. We’ve put together some information to help determine the difference between normal eye pain when blinking, and eye pain that requires emergency care.

Common Causes

Here are a few of the usual suspects that cause eye pain when blinking:

• Conjunctivitis: You may recognize conjunctivitis by its more popular name – pinkeye. This condition occurs when the conjunctiva, the clear lining on the eyeball’s surface, becomes red, inflamed, and infected. Your eyes may feel sore and gritty, and blinking may be painful. 
• Blepharitis: Blepharitis is a chronic condition that begins near the base of the eyelashes, producing clumps of scaly skin. These clumps make the eyelids feel sticky, resulting in uncomfortable blinking. Another common symptom of blepharitis is an itchy eyelid.
• Cluster headaches: Cluster headaches result in pain usually felt behind one eye, on one side of the head. The pain of cluster headaches can result in red eyes, and swollen, painful eyelids. 
• Dry eye disease: Dry eye disease is linked to inadequate tear production. Blinking over a dry eyeball can be irritating and painful.
• Debris: When a foreign object enters the eye, it can result in pain and irritation of the cornea and eyelid. Significant irritation can be caused by an item as small as an eyelash, resulting in pain when you blink.
• Optic neuritis: Optic neuritis is an inflammation of the optic nerve, which causes pain when moving the eyes and eyelids. The pain is most prominent when looking up.
• Sty: A sty is an eye infection that typically begins in the oil glands on the eyelids. This condition causes the lid to become red or swollen, which could result in painful blinking.

A Little More Serious 

Sometimes your eyes can hurt for more severe reasons. Here are a few conditions to watch for: 

• Glaucoma: Glaucoma is a group of diseases that cause an excess buildup of fluid in the eyes. In the case of open angle glaucoma (the most common type) patients rarely notice symptoms of glaucoma.  However, in closed angle glaucoma you can get an eye pressure spike which leads to pain in one eye, which is severe and usually accompanied by a red eye and feeling sick to your stomach. It is usually only happens in one eye.
• Corneal ulcers: Corneal ulcers may develop after an infection or scratch occurs on the eye’s surface. Corneal ulcers can be very painful and result in pain when blinking.
• Burns: Working with hazardous materials or chemicals can increase your risk of eye damage. Chemical and flash burns can occur quickly, and the results can be severe. 
• Eye injuries: Any kind of injury to the face or eyes should be treated urgently.
• Uveitis: this is an inflammation of one or both eyes. It doesn’t cause pain when you blink but can cause moderate to severe pain in just one or both eyes and is usually accompanied by light sensitivity. If left untreated for too long it can lead to scarring within the eye and long term complications such as glaucoma.

If you have concerns about eye emergencies or eye pain, contact your optometrist immediately. If it’s outside your optometrist’s working hours, proceed to the nearest emergency room. 

Help At Home

If you are experiencing minor pain when blinking with no other symptoms, you may be able to find some comfort at home or the pharmacy. You could try: 

• Using a humidifier
• Warm compresses
• Eye drops 
• Wearing sunglasses in bright sunlight
• Adjusting the lighting when using screens 
• Taking frequent breaks from screens
• Consider updating your eyeglass prescription
• Call our office and go through your symptoms with one of our optometric assistants

Avoid Complications

If your eye hurts when you blink, it may not be anything severe or dangerous. Still, getting treatment is an essential step that must be taken seriously. Untreated infections, swelling, and injuries can result in additional complications, like: 

• A more serious infection 
• Damage to the cornea
• Changes to vision
• Loss of vision

Should I Be Worried?

If your eyes hurt when blinking for an extended period, it could be an indication of a more severe problem, and it’s best to catch and manage vision problems in the earliest stages. 

Contact your optometrist if your symptoms escalate or last longer than 24 hours, especially if you are experiencing other symptoms, like: 

• Pain when moving your eyes
• Swelling of the eyelids or lash line
• Light sensitivity
• Tenderness around your sinuses

Proceed to urgent care if you experience pain when blinking, along with any of the following symptoms:

• Sudden vision loss
• Nausea and vomiting
• Severe abdominal pain
• Seeing halos around lights
• Severe pain in the eye

Keeping Your Eyes Healthy & Happy

Your optometrist can diagnose and prescribe treatment for your eye pain, and conduct a comprehensive eye exam to help determine the cause of the problem.

If your pain escalates or other symptoms develop, Calgary Family Eye Doctors recommends seeking urgent medical care. If you are ever concerned feel free to give our office a call, we are here to help. Your vision is essential, and we want to make sure your eyes receive swift, quality treatment before any damage occurs. 

Contact our knowledgeable and friendly team today if you have questions about eye pain, or would like to book an eye exam. We’re always ready to help!

Purulent eye infection – description, causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment

Purulent eye infections – ophthalmic pathologies of an acute or chronic nature caused by the introduction of pathogens. In the vast majority of cases, the disease is manifested by lacrimation, photophobia (light intolerance), reddening of proteins, swelling of the eyelids, and visual disturbances. Due to the constant release of purulent exudate, the eyelashes stick together, aggravating the general symptoms.

In the absence of competent therapy, complications are not long in coming. An acute infection becomes chronic, difficult to treat. Often the shape of the pupils changes, a thorn forms, visual function is partially or completely lost. Rapidly progressing purulent infection leads to atrophy of the eyeball.

The effectiveness of therapy largely depends on the timeliness of medical intervention. An ophthalmologist should be contacted immediately – at the first sign of an infectious eye infection. The doctor will conduct a series of diagnostic tests and prescribe effective drugs.

Ophthalmologists treat hundreds of diseases, but most often they diagnose purulent lesions of the visual apparatus. Despite the commonality of symptoms, doctors use different methods to identify the causes of infection. The methods of treatment and the pharmacological agents used also differ.

Especially often the infectious process develops against the background of colds already occurring in the body. Infectious pathogens are transferred from the respiratory tract to the eye structures, forming new inflammatory foci, or penetrate them when touching dirty hands, towels, personal hygiene items. Slightly less often, injuries become the cause of pathology.

Purulent discharge from the eyes is accompanied by conjunctivitis, endophthalmitis, panophthalmitis, iridocyclitis, as well as herpes, fungal keratitis, ulcerative corneal defects, dacryocystitis, blepharitis and barley. A mucous secret with purulent impurities is formed as a result of the active growth of pathogens, their release into the surrounding space of toxic waste products.

There is always a tear film on the surface of the eyeball, moisturizing it and protecting it from negative external influences. It is acceptable to secrete a small amount of mucus during sleep due to the lack of blinking. Normally, it contains mucin and cells produced by the meibomian glands. Such a secret is slightly viscous, whitish, but transparent.

With the development of a purulent infection, the qualitative and quantitative composition of the mucus changes, its secretion is complicated by redness, lacrimation, burning, itching. Depending on the content of pus, its color varies from yellow to yellowish-green, viscosity increases significantly. The mucous secret accumulates in the corners of the eyes, distributed on the skin of the eyelids and eyelashes.

Optimum functioning of the eye is ensured by all its elements: cornea, camera, iris, pupil, lens. It directly depends on the state of the optic nerve, sclera, blood vessels, and retina. The visual apparatus is characterized by the most important functions in ensuring human life. With its help, visual images are formed, the surrounding world is visualized. If the eyeball is affected by a purulent infection, then the quality of life is significantly reduced.

Conjunctivitis

This is the name of inflammation of the conjunctiva caused by the introduction of an infectious or allergic agent. Pathology can be both acute and chronic. In adult patients, ophthalmologists more often diagnose conjunctivitis of adenovirus origin. In childhood, its development is provoked by both adenoviruses and pathogenic bacteria.

There are a number of infectious pathogens that easily affect the membranes of the eyes. In addition to some viruses, inflammation can be specific and nonspecific, caused by gonococci, staphylococci, streptococci, Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Somewhat less often, the accumulation of pus is associated with active reproduction in the eye structures of representatives of pathogenic and conditionally pathogenic fungal microflora – aspergillus, actinomycetes, candida and others. Allergic conjunctivitis is caused by wearing lenses, contact with dust, pollen from flowering plants, and even the use of ophthalmic agents. This is also an occupational disease that affects employees of enterprises with insufficient indoor air purification.

The clinical picture of infectious and inflammatory pathology is pronounced. It is characterized by redness and swelling of the eyelids, profuse lacrimation, pain syndrome, blurred vision mainly due to purulent discharge.

Medical attention is required at the first appearance of discomfort. An experienced doctor will quickly make a primary diagnosis based on the results of an external examination. To confirm it, laboratory studies are carried out aimed at identifying the nature of the pathogen. Then a therapeutic regimen is drawn up, which includes antiviral, antifungal or antibacterial drugs.

Endophthalmitis

The cause of this abscessing inflammation of the internal structures of the eye, leading to the accumulation of purulent exudate in the vitreous body, is the penetration of bacteria. They are introduced into tissues from the outside or are carried by blood from already formed infectious foci. Endophthalmitis is caused by injuries, surgical interventions, during which partial or complete removal of the vitreous body, cataracts, and glaucoma are performed.

The danger of the disease lies in the absence of symptoms at the initial stage of development. The patient’s doctor is encouraged to turn to a decrease in visual acuity, the appearance of foreign objects in front of the eyes, indicating the rapid progression of the pathology. Recognizing infection at an early stage is difficult. An experienced diagnostician determines it according to the anamnesis – a recent surgical intervention or an injury.

Start treatment immediately. “Heavy artillery” is used – steroids with a powerful anti-inflammatory effect. To destroy infectious pathogens, antibiotics and antimycotics, including systemic ones, are used. With well-conducted therapy, it is possible to fully preserve the patient’s vision.

Pantophthalmitis

Development of total purulent inflammation and melting of all structures and membranes of the eyeball is rapid. Like other pathologies, pantophthalmitis provokes the penetration of pathogenic bacteria from the environment or from infectious foci of any localization. It is distinguished by severe pain in the orbits, accompanied by swelling of the eyelids, photophobia, lacrimation, visual disturbances, as well as signs of general intoxication of the body in the form of chills and fever.

In pantophthalmitis, the inflammatory process is acute, severe, and quickly leads to complications, including atrophy of the eyeball. The infection instantly affects the healthy structures of the visual apparatus as a result of the active growth and reproduction of pathogenic microorganisms.

In most cases, after bacterial inoculation of biomaterial, numerous colonies of staphylococci, pneumococci, tuberculosis bacteria, Pseudomonas aeruginosa or Escherichia coli are formed on the surface of nutrient media. They are introduced into the eyeball in violation of the integrity of tissues due to injuries, untreated keratitis, abscesses of the eyelids, phlegmon. Pantophthalmitis often becomes a consequence of endophthalmitis, pneumonia, typhoid, sinusitis, sepsis, tuberculosis and many other diseases with an infectious component.

Just a few days after infection, the inflammatory process spreads to the entire eyeball. The severity of symptoms increases rapidly. Pathology is manifested by acute headaches, fever, bouts of nausea and vomiting. As a result of the accumulation of purulent exudate, a person suffers from cutting pains in the eye sockets, decreased vision clarity, loss of light fields, and then complete blindness. Due to damage to the nerves and muscles, the motor function of the eye deteriorates significantly, up to a complete lack of movement. If treatment is not carried out, then after one and a half to two months, pus breaks out with atrophy of all eye elements. When it penetrates the brain, the likelihood of developing meningitis with an abscess is as high as possible.

The diagnosis is made on the basis of an external examination, anamnestic data, laboratory and instrumental examination results. Emergency antibiotic therapy is carried out using drugs to which the identified infectious pathogens are sensitive. With fungal infection, local and systemic antimycotics are prescribed.

If a patient sees a doctor with advanced inflammation, then conservative treatment is usually ineffective. Surgical therapy is performed with the removal of the eyeball. With loss of vision, the internal membranes and the cornea are partially excised with the installation of an implant.

Herpetic lesions

Once entering the body, herpes viruses remain in it forever. With a sharp weakening of the immune system, they are activated with the development of the infectious process. Herpetic eye lesions often occur against the background of severe inflammation of the trigeminal nerve. At risk are people with weakened immune defenses, including immunodeficiency states.

The leading symptoms of herpetic ophthalmic infection are compact nodules filled with purulent exudate, reddening of the conjunctival membrane, photophobia, and continuous separation of lacrimal fluid. During laboratory tests, herpes viruses are detected. To destroy them, patients are prescribed antiviral agents, immunomodulators, analgesics.

Keratitis

Keratitis is an inflammatory lesion of the cornea (anterior transparent membrane of the eye). The disease can be triggered by viruses, bacteria, and fungi. As the infectious process intensifies, the intensity of symptoms increases – pain, pain, redness. The cornea loses its physiological transparency, due to inflammation of the muscles, the eyelids stop closing. Injuries, acute respiratory or allergic reactions lead to keratitis. In any case, urgent medical care is required, as there is a high risk of thorn formation and even complete loss of vision.

Iridocyclitis

In ophthalmic practice, this term refers to combined inflammation of the iris with the ciliary body. Iridocyclitis occurs after trauma, viral, bacterial or protozoal diseases. Pathogens are carried by blood into the eyeball from existing foci, for example, with sinusitis or sinusitis. A little-known fact is that the impetus for the development of inflammation is also lesions of the musculoskeletal system, including rheumatism, as well as metabolic disorders, such as gout.

Infection of the iris with the ciliary body is characterized by pain, lacrimation, photophobia, decreased visual acuity. As a result of the expansion of blood vessels, the color of the iris changes. The bottom of the eye chamber becomes the site of localization of exudate with abundant purulent and bloody impurities.

Using a special microscope, an ophthalmologist diagnoses iridocyclitis during an external examination, including an altered pupil shape. The therapeutic regimen usually consists of glucocorticosteroids, antibacterial and antihistamines.

Barley

Staphylococcus aureus is the cause of the disease in 85% of cases. Much less often, the development of a limited purulent process on the eyelids is caused by infection of the hair follicle of an eyelash or sebaceous gland with pathogenic fungi or microscopic mites. In the role of provoking factors are weakened immunity, acute experience of stressful situations, helminthiases, unbalanced diet.

First, a vesicle filled with a purulent yellow liquid forms. The eyelids turn red, swell, lymph nodes often increase, the temperature rises. Based on the combination of these signs, the doctor makes a diagnosis. When choosing drugs, they take into account the nature of the infectious agent. Be sure to use local antiseptics, vitamin-mineral balanced complexes.

Dacryocystitis

Dacryocystitis is an inflammation of the lacrimal sac that develops against a narrowing or blockage of the nasolacrimal canal. The tissues near the lacrimal opening turn red, swell, a purulent yellowish secret is released from it. Pain radiates to the nose, jaw joints. Pathology is both congenital and acquired.

The diagnosis is made on the basis of an external examination, biochemical and instrumental data. Antibiotics are the first choice. Additionally, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed, the lacrimal canals are treated with antiseptic solutions.

Blepharitis

Blepharitis is a bilateral recurrent inflammatory disease that affects the ciliary edge of the eyelids. At an appointment with an ophthalmologist, patients complain of redness and swelling of the edges of the eyelids, a feeling of heaviness, itching, increased sensitivity to light, and fatigue. The specific symptoms of blepharitis are abnormal growth and loss of eyelashes.

To make a diagnosis, an external examination is performed, a number of laboratory and instrumental studies are performed. The most informative results of biomicroscopy, bacteriological culture. In addition to systemic pharmacological preparations, local remedies are used in the form of drops, ointments, and applications.

Medical treatment

In the conservative treatment of eye pathologies, drugs with antibacterial, antimycotic, antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects are used. Their action is enhanced by the use of antiseptics for baths and washings. For pain, analgesics are prescribed in capsules, tablets or in the form of eye drops. To enhance the immune defense of the body, it is recommended to take vitamins with micro- and macro-elements.

Surgical treatment

Surgical intervention is resorted to in exceptional cases, for example, with an excessively rapid progression of a purulent infection with a threat of brain damage. If conservative therapy is ineffective, irreversibly damaged tissues of the eyeball are excised, the cavity is sanitized, and then a prosthesis is installed.

Preventive measures

The development of a purulent eye infection is better to prevent than to treat for a long time afterwards. Ophthalmologists have identified the most effective preventive measures:

• daily eye care;
• maintaining immunity at the proper level;
• proper care of contact lenses, adherence to their wearing regimen;
• cleansing the skin of the face and eyelids with high-quality care products;
• avoiding touching the eyes with hands during the day;
• meticulous hand hygiene;
• use of disposable tissues and handkerchiefs;
• use of protective equipment when working with an increased risk of foreign body getting into the eye;
• regular visits to an ophthalmologist;
• timely treatment of any infectious diseases.

Doctors warn: ignoring the symptoms of a purulent eye infection and self-treatment can lead to loss of vision

Treatment at the Miracle Doctor clinic

Turning to us for medical care, the patient can be sure of its high quality. An experienced ophthalmologist will advise on the form and type of the disease, the most effective methods of treatment. He will not only prescribe medications, but will also adjust the therapeutic regimen if necessary. If all the recommendations of the ophthalmologist are followed, recovery occurs as soon as possible.

Author

Ilyukhina Marina Guramovna

ophthalmologist

Doctor of the highest category

Experience 23 years

+7 (495) 032-15-21

Eyes hurt with colds and SARS | Pain in the eyes, runny nose and fever – causes and treatment

Rinza®

>

Colds and flu

>

What to do if your eyes hurt and watery when you have a cold

What to do if your eyes hurt and watery when you have a cold

• minutes

Author, editor and medical expert

Klimovich Elina Valerievna.

Editor

Harutyunyan Mariam Harutyunovna

Contents:

• Why eyes hurt and watery with a cold
• What should I do if my eyes hurt and watery when I have a cold?
• Eyes hurt and watery – is it always a cold?

Did you know that we get more than 70% of information about the world around us through vision ¹ ? That is why we seem to lose the opportunity to fully live and communicate if our eyes hurt and watery during a cold. Of course, other unpleasant symptoms, such as headaches, “aches” in the joints and muscles, or fever with a cold, are no less disturbing. But it is precisely because of the discomfort in the eyes that we cannot calmly read a book, watch our favorite series, and even hardly type a message on the phone.

What causes cold and watery eyes? How to alleviate these unpleasant symptoms? We will answer these questions in the article.

Why eyes hurt and water when you have a cold

The common cold is the popular name for acute respiratory diseases (ARI). The group of acute respiratory infections includes infections of the upper respiratory tract caused by various pathogens ⁸ . But most often the respiratory organs are attacked by viruses, therefore, speaking of a cold, many people mean an acute respiratory viral infection (ARVI) ⁹ .

Why do the eyes hurt and watery when the respiratory tract is inflamed? There are several explanations for this, which we will discuss below.

Runny nose

Often, when you have a cold, your eyes water because of a runny nose. The inflamed nasal mucosa thickens significantly and often covers the lumen of the nasolacrimal duct. As a result, tear fluid is not removed through the canal into the nasal cavity – its excess causes a feeling of pressure in the eyeballs and lacrimation ² .

With a cold, the eyes water also because our body believes that any irritant that enters the nose has a high chance of getting into the eyes. Therefore, when we sneeze, we involuntarily close them, and the lacrimal glands begin to produce more liquid in order to flush the irritant from the surface of the eyes ² .

Intoxication

Feeling unwell with a cold is a manifestation of intoxication. It is part of the body’s overall response to invading pathogens ¹⁰ . Intoxication develops when viruses and decay products of infected cells are absorbed into the blood from the focus of inflammation. All this “toxic mass” is carried with the blood flow throughout the body, causing various unpleasant symptoms of a cold, such as fever, headache, weakness and “aches” in the body ^6.10 .

If your head hurts when you move your eyes, it is likely that the cold was caused by the influenza virus ⁴ , which triggers a pronounced intoxication of the body. With an influenza infection, a so-called “cytokine storm” develops – a lot of products that provoke inflammation are released, while there is a deficiency of anti-inflammatory substances ³ . Therefore, the symptoms of an inflammatory reaction and intoxication are very pronounced.

Features of viruses

There are viruses that attack not only the respiratory tract, but also the eyes, which makes them ache and watery when they catch a cold ^3,4,7 .

• Rhinoviruses may cause watery eyes and red eyes ^3.4 . Pain may mean that rhinoviruses have triggered inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eye – conjunctivitis ^3.7 .
• Adenoviruses cause simultaneous inflammation of the throat (pharyngitis) and conjunctivitis ³ . Such a combined lesion is called pharyngoconjunctival fever ⁷ . If a cold is caused by adenoviruses, its symptoms begin gradually. Some time after a runny nose, signs of conjunctivitis appear: first one eye hurts and waters, and after 1-3 days the second one is involved in the process ⁷ .

Sinusitis

Sometimes with SARS recovery is delayed. The symptoms of a cold persist for more than 5 days, and a feeling of pressure in the face and a decrease in smell are added to the existing complaints. With such complaints, the doctor can diagnose sinusitis – inflammation of the paranasal sinuses. Sinusitis may mean that a viral infection has weakened the body’s defenses, and bacterial inflammation has occurred ¹¹ .

With sinusitis, several areas hurt at once – the forehead, eyes, teeth, cheekbones, and sometimes discomfort is felt at the inner edge of the orbit ¹¹ .

Back to top

What should I do if my eyes hurt and watery when I have a cold?

If you have a cold, stay at home to avoid infecting others, stay in bed and follow your doctor’s instructions.

Drink plenty of warm liquids, preferably in the form of tea, juices or fruit drinks – drinking plenty of water relieves the symptoms of intoxication. Increase intake of dietary meat, fish, dairy products, vegetables and fruits ⁵ . For colds caused by viruses, doctors usually prescribe drugs to relieve symptoms ⁶ . Antibiotics can only be prescribed by a doctor and only if he has found that the eyes are sore and watery due to a bacterial infection ⁷ .

To alleviate the symptoms of SARS and influenza, you can use the combined preparations of the Rinza® line ^{12.1 3.14} .

Rinza® tablets contain 4 active ingredients ¹² :

• paracetamol – has an antipyretic effect, relieves various types of pain that bother colds and flu, including “ache” in muscles and joints, headache and sore throat ¹² ;
• caffeine – increases the effect of paracetamol ¹⁵ ;
• phenylephrine – reduces nasal congestion, thereby facilitating nasal breathing ¹² ;
• chlorphenamine – reduces itching in the eyes, throat and nose ¹² .

Rinzasip® with Vitamin C – powder for preparing a hot drink – not only fights the symptoms of a cold, but also strengthens the body’s defenses thanks to ascorbic acid ¹³ . Rinzasip® also contains an increased dose of paracetamol (750 mg) ²⁰ , caffeine (enhancing the action of paracetamol ¹⁵ ), pheniramine and a vasoconstrictor component phenylephrine ¹⁴ . Rinza® and Rinzasip® can be used by adults and adolescents over 15 years of age ^12.13 .

Rinzasip® for children with raspberry flavor is recommended for a child from 6 years old. It contains a “child” dose of paracetamol (280 mg), vitamin C and pheniramine ¹⁴ .

Back to top

Eyes hurt and watery – is it always a cold?

Eye pain and watery eyes are not always associated with infectious diseases. Some symptoms may be similar to a cold, but there are differences.

Computer vision syndrome

Many regular users of personal computers begin to complain that eyes that are tired from visual strain are watery and sore. As a rule, discomfort appears within 4-6 hours of work at the monitor. Office workers who are typing and entering other information into a computer experience a large load ¹⁶ .

Allergy

Lachrymation, itching or burning in the eyes may also indicate an onset of an allergy. Other manifestations of an allergic reaction – nasal discharge, itching in the nose and cough – are very similar to a cold, but usually with allergies, the eyes hurt and watery without fever ¹⁷ .

Headache attack

Another cause of eye symptoms is cluster headache. It can be suspected if you have watery eyes and very bad pain in or around one eye. It is easy to confuse an attack with a cold, since nasal congestion and discharge from it can join the eye complaints. But what is very typical for cluster headache is that all the symptoms are expressed only on one side of the face ¹⁸ .

Thyrotoxicosis

Ophthalmic (eye) symptoms often develop with thyrotoxicosis, a disease of the thyroid gland. Many people with this disease are concerned about watery eyes, pain in the eyes, and limited mobility of the eyeballs. With thyrotoxicosis, as with a cold, body temperature may rise. To clarify the diagnosis, an immunological blood test is used ¹⁹ .