Eye

Pain in eyebrow and eye socket. Eyebrow and Eye Socket Pain: 8 Causes and Effective Relief Strategies

What are the common causes of pain in the eyebrow and eye socket area. How can you find relief from eyebrow and eye socket discomfort. What are the symptoms and treatments for conditions causing facial pain near the eyes.

Understanding Trigeminal Neuralgia: A Major Cause of Facial Pain

Trigeminal neuralgia is a significant cause of sharp, intense facial pain that can affect the eyebrow and eye socket area. This condition involves the trigeminal nerve, which connects the brain to the face and allows for sensations of touch and temperature changes.

What are the key characteristics of trigeminal neuralgia?

  • Usually affects one side of the face, rarely both
  • Can cause stabbing pain or electric shock-like sensations
  • May result in a constant aching or burning feeling in the face

Trigeminal neuralgia can be a challenging condition to manage, but various treatment options are available. These may include medications, such as anticonvulsants or muscle relaxants, as well as surgical procedures in severe cases. Patients experiencing symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia should consult with a neurologist for proper diagnosis and treatment planning.

Glaucoma: When Eye Pressure Leads to Eyebrow Pain

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can cause severe pain around the eyebrow and eye area. This condition occurs when excess fluid builds up in the front of the eye, damaging the optic nerve over time.

What are the common symptoms of glaucoma?

  • Blind spots in vision
  • Blurred vision
  • Headaches
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Seeing rainbows or halos around lights

Early detection and treatment of glaucoma are crucial to prevent permanent vision loss. Regular eye exams can help identify the condition in its early stages. Treatment typically involves daily eye drop medications to reduce intraocular pressure. In some cases, laser therapy or surgery may be necessary to manage the condition effectively.

Migraine: A Common Culprit Behind Eyebrow and Temple Pain

Migraine is a prevalent neurological condition that can cause significant pain around the eyebrows, eyes, and temples. These episodes can last anywhere from 4 hours to several days, severely impacting a person’s quality of life.

What are the key symptoms of a migraine episode?

  • Intense head pain
  • Throbbing sensations
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Increased sensitivity to light and sound
  • Pain that worsens with movement

Managing migraine episodes often requires a multifaceted approach. This may include identifying and avoiding triggers, using over-the-counter or prescription pain medications, and employing non-pharmacological strategies such as relaxation techniques or acupuncture. For those experiencing frequent or severe migraines, preventive medications may be prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Cluster Headaches: Intense Pain Behind the Eyebrow

Cluster headaches are a type of primary headache disorder characterized by severe, recurrent pain often localized behind the eyebrow or eye. These headaches can occur multiple times a day and last from 15 minutes to 3 hours each.

What are the distinctive features of cluster headaches?

  • Red, teary eyes
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Flushed or sweating face
  • Drooping eyelid
  • One smaller pupil
  • Restlessness and inability to lie still

Treatment for cluster headaches typically focuses on both acute pain relief and prevention of future episodes. Oxygen therapy, triptans, and local anesthetics may be used for acute attacks. Preventive treatments can include calcium channel blockers, corticosteroids, or nerve block procedures. Due to the intensity and frequency of cluster headaches, it’s essential for sufferers to work closely with a headache specialist to develop an effective management plan.

Tension Headaches: The Most Common Type of Headache

Tension headaches are the most prevalent type of headache, affecting millions of people worldwide. These headaches can cause pain that spreads to the eye, eyebrow, and temple areas, lasting anywhere from 30 minutes to 7 days.

What are the primary symptoms of tension headaches?

  • Mild-to-moderate pain on both sides of the head
  • Increased sensitivity to light or sound
  • Tenderness in the neck muscles

Managing tension headaches often involves a combination of lifestyle changes and pain relief strategies. These may include stress reduction techniques, regular exercise, improving sleep habits, and using over-the-counter pain medications when necessary. For chronic tension headaches, preventive medications or therapies such as biofeedback may be recommended by a healthcare provider.

Shingles: When Nerve Pain Affects the Face

Shingles is a viral infection that affects the nerves, causing a painful rash that can appear on various parts of the body, including the face and neck. When shingles affects the facial area, it can lead to significant pain around the eyebrow and eye socket.

What are the key symptoms of shingles?

  • A very painful rash with fluid-filled blisters
  • Shooting pain
  • Tingling or numb sensations
  • Burning and itching
  • Fever and chills
  • Nausea
  • Headaches
  • Potential loss of vision (if blisters occur near the eyes)

Treatment for shingles typically involves antiviral medications to reduce the severity and duration of the infection. Pain management is also crucial, and may include over-the-counter pain relievers, topical treatments, and in some cases, prescription pain medications. It’s important to seek medical attention immediately if shingles is suspected, especially if blisters appear on the face near the eyes.

Sinusitis: When Inflammation Causes Facial Pressure

Sinusitis, or inflammation of the nasal cavities, can create significant pressure and pain in various areas of the face, including around the eyebrows, nose, forehead, and cheeks. This condition can be either acute or chronic, with symptoms lasting from a few days to several weeks or more.

What are the common symptoms of sinusitis?

  • Blocked or stuffy nose
  • Cough
  • Thick, yellow, or green mucus from the nose
  • Mucus dripping down the back of the throat (post-nasal drip)

Treatment for sinusitis depends on whether it’s acute or chronic. Acute sinusitis often resolves on its own within 7-10 days, but may be managed with saline nasal sprays, decongestants, and pain relievers. Chronic sinusitis, lasting more than 12 weeks, may require more intensive treatment, including nasal corticosteroids, antibiotics if a bacterial infection is present, or in some cases, surgical intervention to improve sinus drainage.

Giant Cell Arteritis: A Serious Cause of Facial Pain in Older Adults

Giant cell arteritis, also known as temporal arteritis, is a condition that affects the blood vessels along the side of the head. This inflammatory condition can cause significant pain in the face, including the eyebrow and eye socket areas, particularly in individuals over 50 years of age.

What are the key symptoms of giant cell arteritis?

  • Pain in the jaw
  • Double vision or temporary loss of vision
  • Fever
  • Tenderness on the scalp and around the temples
  • Severe headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Difficulty swallowing or a sore throat

Giant cell arteritis is considered a medical emergency due to its potential to cause permanent vision loss if left untreated. Treatment typically involves high-dose corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and prevent complications. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial, so individuals experiencing symptoms should seek medical attention promptly.

Effective Treatment Strategies for Eyebrow and Eye Socket Pain

The appropriate treatment for eyebrow and eye socket pain depends on the underlying cause. Here are some general strategies that may provide relief:

  1. For headaches and migraine episodes:
    • Take pain relievers as directed
    • Stay hydrated
    • Get plenty of rest and sleep
    • Consider prescription medications for severe or frequent migraines
  2. For cluster headaches:
    • Use oxygen therapy as prescribed
    • Take preventive medications as recommended by a doctor
  3. For shingles:
    • Apply cool compresses to soothe the affected area
    • Use calamine lotion to relieve itching
    • Take antiviral medications as prescribed
  4. For glaucoma:
    • Use daily eye drop medications as directed
    • Consider beta-blockers or alpha-agonists to reduce fluid buildup in the eye
  5. For sinusitis:
    • Use saline nasal sprays to relieve congestion
    • Take decongestants or pain relievers as needed
    • Consider antibiotics if prescribed for bacterial sinusitis

It’s important to note that while these strategies can provide relief for many individuals, persistent or severe pain should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional. They can provide a proper diagnosis and develop a tailored treatment plan to address the specific cause of your eyebrow and eye socket pain.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Eyebrow and Eye Socket Pain

While some causes of eyebrow and eye socket pain can be managed at home, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. These include:

  • Sudden, severe headache or facial pain
  • Vision changes, including blurred vision or loss of vision
  • High fever accompanying facial pain
  • Signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge
  • Pain that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter medications
  • Persistent pain lasting more than a few days

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and ensure the best possible outcome for conditions affecting the eyebrow and eye socket area.

Preventing Eyebrow and Eye Socket Pain: Lifestyle Considerations

While not all causes of eyebrow and eye socket pain can be prevented, certain lifestyle changes may help reduce the frequency and severity of some conditions. Consider the following strategies:

  • Manage stress through relaxation techniques, exercise, or meditation
  • Maintain good sleep hygiene and aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day
  • Practice good posture to reduce tension in the neck and shoulders
  • Limit screen time and take regular breaks when using digital devices
  • Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids
  • Get regular exercise to improve overall health and reduce stress
  • Avoid known triggers for headaches or migraines, such as certain foods or environmental factors

By incorporating these habits into your daily routine, you may be able to reduce the likelihood of experiencing eyebrow and eye socket pain. However, it’s important to remember that these strategies are not a substitute for professional medical advice, especially if you’re experiencing persistent or severe pain.

The Role of Complementary and Alternative Therapies

In addition to conventional medical treatments, some individuals find relief from eyebrow and eye socket pain through complementary and alternative therapies. While the effectiveness of these approaches can vary, some options to consider include:

  • Acupuncture: This traditional Chinese medicine technique may help alleviate certain types of headaches and facial pain
  • Massage therapy: Focused massage of the head, neck, and shoulders can help reduce tension and associated pain
  • Biofeedback: This technique teaches individuals to control certain bodily processes, potentially reducing pain and tension
  • Herbal supplements: Some herbs, such as feverfew and butterbur, have been studied for their potential to reduce headache frequency
  • Essential oils: Certain essential oils, like peppermint or lavender, may provide relief when applied topically or used in aromatherapy

It’s important to discuss any complementary or alternative therapies with your healthcare provider before trying them, especially if you’re taking medications or have underlying health conditions. These approaches should be used in conjunction with, not as a replacement for, conventional medical care when dealing with eyebrow and eye socket pain.

The Importance of Accurate Diagnosis

Given the wide range of potential causes for eyebrow and eye socket pain, obtaining an accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. Healthcare providers may use various diagnostic tools and techniques to determine the underlying cause of your pain, including:

  • Physical examination of the head, face, and eyes
  • Neurological tests to assess nerve function
  • Imaging studies such as CT scans or MRI
  • Blood tests to check for inflammatory markers or other abnormalities
  • Eye pressure tests for glaucoma diagnosis
  • Sinus x-rays or endoscopy for sinusitis evaluation

By pinpointing the exact cause of your pain, healthcare providers can develop a targeted treatment plan that addresses the root of the problem. This approach not only provides more effective relief but also helps prevent potential complications associated with untreated conditions affecting the eyebrow and eye socket area.

Living with Chronic Eyebrow and Eye Socket Pain

For some individuals, eyebrow and eye socket pain may become a chronic condition. Living with persistent pain can be challenging, but there are strategies to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life:

  • Develop a pain management plan with your healthcare provider
  • Keep a pain diary to identify patterns and potential triggers
  • Explore pain coping techniques, such as mindfulness or cognitive behavioral therapy
  • Join support groups to connect with others experiencing similar challenges
  • Consider working with a pain specialist for advanced treatment options
  • Maintain open communication with your healthcare team about your symptoms and treatment effectiveness

Remember that chronic pain management often requires a multidisciplinary approach. By working closely with your healthcare providers and actively participating in your treatment plan, you can develop effective strategies to manage chronic eyebrow and eye socket pain and maintain a good quality of life.

8 causes and how to get relief

Eyebrow pain or tension can be due to various causes, including headaches, infections, or conditions affecting the nerves in the face.

In this article, we look at eight possible causes of eyebrow pain, as well as the treatment options for each.

Share on PinterestMigraine, trigeminal neuralgia, and glaucoma are some possible causes of eyebrow pain.

Trigeminal neuralgia is a condition that causes sharp, intense pain in areas of the face. The trigeminal nerve connects the brain to the face, allowing a person to sense touch and changes in temperature.

Trigeminal neuralgia usually affects just one side of the face, but in rare cases, it can affect both sides.

Some people with this condition may experience a stabbing pain or pain that feels like an electric shock. Others may have a constant aching or burning sensation in the face.

Glaucoma occurs when excess fluid builds up in the front of the eye and damages the optic nerve. It can cause severe pain around the eyebrow and eye.

Other symptoms of glaucoma include:

  • blind spots in the vision
  • blurred vision
  • headaches
  • nausea or vomiting
  • seeing rainbows or halos

It is vital to receive treatment for glaucoma. Without treatment, it can cause permanent vision loss.

Migraine can cause pain around the eyebrows, eyes, and temples. A migraine episode can last from 4 hours up to several days.

Symptoms of a migraine episode can include:

  • intense head pain
  • a throbbing sensation
  • nausea and vomiting
  • increased sensitivity to light and sound
  • pain that increases when a person moves

Learn more about the differences between migraine and a headache here.

Share on PinterestA cluster headache may cause red, teary eyes and a runny nose.

A cluster headache is a severe headache that can reoccur between one and eight times a day and last from 15 minutes to 3 hours each time.

People may experience a stabbing pain, often either behind the eyebrow or eye or around the temples. This pain and other symptoms usually affect one side of the head.

Symptoms of a cluster headache include:

  • red, teary eyes
  • a runny or stuffy nose
  • a flushed or sweating face
  • a drooping eyelid
  • one smaller pupil
  • restlessness
  • being unable to lie still

According to the American Migraine Foundation, tension headaches are the most common type of headache, and they can last from anywhere between 30 minutes and 7 days.

Pain may spread to the eye, eyebrow, and temple. Symptoms of a tension headache include:

  • mild-to-moderate pain on both sides of the head
  • increased sensitivity to either light or sound
  • tenderness in the neck muscles

Shingles is a condition that affects the nerves. It occurs in localized areas, usually on one side of the body. These areas can include the face and neck.

The symptoms of shingles include:

  • a very painful rash
  • fluid filled blisters
  • shooting pain
  • tingling or numb sensations
  • burning
  • itchiness
  • fever and chills
  • nausea
  • headaches
  • loss of vision

People should see their doctor immediately if they have blisters on their face, especially if they are close to the eyes.

Sinusitis is the inflammation of the nasal cavities. It can create a lot of pressure in the face, and people may feel pain around the eyebrows, nose, forehead, and cheeks.

Symptoms of sinusitis include:

  • a blocked or stuffy nose
  • a cough
  • thick, yellow, or green mucus from the nose
  • mucus that drips down the back of the throat

Sinusitis can be either acute or chronic. The symptoms of acute sinusitis usually go away within a week or 10 days. If the symptoms show no improvement with medical treatment and last longer than 12 weeks, a person may have chronic sinusitis.

Giant cell arteritis, or temporal arteritis, is a condition affecting the blood vessels along the side of the head.

Inflammation of these blood vessels can cause pain in the face and other symptoms around the head and neck, such as:

  • pain in the jaw
  • double vision or temporary loss of vision
  • a fever
  • tenderness on the scalp
  • tenderness around the temples
  • severe headaches
  • dizziness
  • difficulty swallowing or a sore throat

According to the Arthritis Foundation, people over the age of 50 years, particularly Caucasian women, are more likely to develop giant cell arteritis.

Treatment for eyebrow pain depends on the underlying cause:

  • Headaches and migraine episodes: Taking pain relievers, staying hydrated, and getting plenty of rest and sleep can help.
  • Severe or frequent migraine episodes: A doctor can prescribe medications for pain and other symptoms.
  • Cluster headaches: A doctor may recommend medications or an oxygen mask to prevent a cluster attack.
  • Shingles: Rest, a cool compress, and calamine lotion may help soothe symptoms of shingles until the infection passes. Adults over the age of 50 years can get a shingles vaccine.
  • Glaucoma: Taking daily eye drop medication can help prevent vision loss in people with glaucoma. Beta-blockers and alpha-agonists also work to reduce fluid buildup in the eye.
  • Sinusitis: People can take decongestants and nasal sprays to treat sinusitis. Pain relievers, plenty of rest, and proper hydration can also help reduce symptoms.
  • Trigeminal neuralgia: A doctor may prescribe medications or recommend surgery, which usually involves damaging the trigeminal nerve to stop the transmission of pain signals.
  • Giant cell arteritis: Corticosteroids can effectively treat the symptoms of giant cell arteritis. A longer course may be necessary to keep inflammation levels low.

Share on PinterestA person with eyebrow pain should talk to their doctor if they experience sudden, severe headaches, drowsiness, or nausea.

A person should see their doctor if their eyebrow pain is severe, does not go away, or occurs alongside other symptoms.

People with eyebrow pain should seek medical care straight away if they also have the following symptoms:

  • severe pain or swelling in the face
  • swelling or redness around the eyes
  • confusion or feeling disorientated
  • a sudden severe headache
  • drowsiness
  • a fever
  • a rash
  • nausea and vomiting

People should speak to a doctor if they have symptoms of any of the following conditions:

  • shingles
  • giant cell arteritis
  • severe or frequent migraine episodes
  • trigeminal neuralgia
  • glaucoma

If symptoms of sinusitis carry on longer than 10 days or do not improve with treatment, a doctor can help.

People may experience pain behind or around the eyebrows for many reasons. Blocked sinuses or headaches can lead to increased pressure and pain around the eyebrows, which should pass once the cause resolves.

In other instances, eyebrow pain is due to an underlying condition, such as glaucoma.

If people have frequent or severe pain around the eyebrows or notice other symptoms, they should see a doctor.

8 causes and how to get relief

Eyebrow pain or tension can be due to various causes, including headaches, infections, or conditions affecting the nerves in the face.

In this article, we look at eight possible causes of eyebrow pain, as well as the treatment options for each.

Share on PinterestMigraine, trigeminal neuralgia, and glaucoma are some possible causes of eyebrow pain.

Trigeminal neuralgia is a condition that causes sharp, intense pain in areas of the face. The trigeminal nerve connects the brain to the face, allowing a person to sense touch and changes in temperature.

Trigeminal neuralgia usually affects just one side of the face, but in rare cases, it can affect both sides.

Some people with this condition may experience a stabbing pain or pain that feels like an electric shock. Others may have a constant aching or burning sensation in the face.

Glaucoma occurs when excess fluid builds up in the front of the eye and damages the optic nerve. It can cause severe pain around the eyebrow and eye.

Other symptoms of glaucoma include:

  • blind spots in the vision
  • blurred vision
  • headaches
  • nausea or vomiting
  • seeing rainbows or halos

It is vital to receive treatment for glaucoma. Without treatment, it can cause permanent vision loss.

Migraine can cause pain around the eyebrows, eyes, and temples. A migraine episode can last from 4 hours up to several days.

Symptoms of a migraine episode can include:

  • intense head pain
  • a throbbing sensation
  • nausea and vomiting
  • increased sensitivity to light and sound
  • pain that increases when a person moves

Learn more about the differences between migraine and a headache here.

Share on PinterestA cluster headache may cause red, teary eyes and a runny nose.

A cluster headache is a severe headache that can reoccur between one and eight times a day and last from 15 minutes to 3 hours each time.

People may experience a stabbing pain, often either behind the eyebrow or eye or around the temples. This pain and other symptoms usually affect one side of the head.

Symptoms of a cluster headache include:

  • red, teary eyes
  • a runny or stuffy nose
  • a flushed or sweating face
  • a drooping eyelid
  • one smaller pupil
  • restlessness
  • being unable to lie still

According to the American Migraine Foundation, tension headaches are the most common type of headache, and they can last from anywhere between 30 minutes and 7 days.

Pain may spread to the eye, eyebrow, and temple. Symptoms of a tension headache include:

  • mild-to-moderate pain on both sides of the head
  • increased sensitivity to either light or sound
  • tenderness in the neck muscles

Shingles is a condition that affects the nerves. It occurs in localized areas, usually on one side of the body. These areas can include the face and neck.

The symptoms of shingles include:

  • a very painful rash
  • fluid filled blisters
  • shooting pain
  • tingling or numb sensations
  • burning
  • itchiness
  • fever and chills
  • nausea
  • headaches
  • loss of vision

People should see their doctor immediately if they have blisters on their face, especially if they are close to the eyes.

Sinusitis is the inflammation of the nasal cavities. It can create a lot of pressure in the face, and people may feel pain around the eyebrows, nose, forehead, and cheeks.

Symptoms of sinusitis include:

  • a blocked or stuffy nose
  • a cough
  • thick, yellow, or green mucus from the nose
  • mucus that drips down the back of the throat

Sinusitis can be either acute or chronic. The symptoms of acute sinusitis usually go away within a week or 10 days. If the symptoms show no improvement with medical treatment and last longer than 12 weeks, a person may have chronic sinusitis.

Giant cell arteritis, or temporal arteritis, is a condition affecting the blood vessels along the side of the head.

Inflammation of these blood vessels can cause pain in the face and other symptoms around the head and neck, such as:

  • pain in the jaw
  • double vision or temporary loss of vision
  • a fever
  • tenderness on the scalp
  • tenderness around the temples
  • severe headaches
  • dizziness
  • difficulty swallowing or a sore throat

According to the Arthritis Foundation, people over the age of 50 years, particularly Caucasian women, are more likely to develop giant cell arteritis.

Treatment for eyebrow pain depends on the underlying cause:

  • Headaches and migraine episodes: Taking pain relievers, staying hydrated, and getting plenty of rest and sleep can help.
  • Severe or frequent migraine episodes: A doctor can prescribe medications for pain and other symptoms.
  • Cluster headaches: A doctor may recommend medications or an oxygen mask to prevent a cluster attack.
  • Shingles: Rest, a cool compress, and calamine lotion may help soothe symptoms of shingles until the infection passes. Adults over the age of 50 years can get a shingles vaccine.
  • Glaucoma: Taking daily eye drop medication can help prevent vision loss in people with glaucoma. Beta-blockers and alpha-agonists also work to reduce fluid buildup in the eye.
  • Sinusitis: People can take decongestants and nasal sprays to treat sinusitis. Pain relievers, plenty of rest, and proper hydration can also help reduce symptoms.
  • Trigeminal neuralgia: A doctor may prescribe medications or recommend surgery, which usually involves damaging the trigeminal nerve to stop the transmission of pain signals.
  • Giant cell arteritis: Corticosteroids can effectively treat the symptoms of giant cell arteritis. A longer course may be necessary to keep inflammation levels low.

Share on PinterestA person with eyebrow pain should talk to their doctor if they experience sudden, severe headaches, drowsiness, or nausea.

A person should see their doctor if their eyebrow pain is severe, does not go away, or occurs alongside other symptoms.

People with eyebrow pain should seek medical care straight away if they also have the following symptoms:

  • severe pain or swelling in the face
  • swelling or redness around the eyes
  • confusion or feeling disorientated
  • a sudden severe headache
  • drowsiness
  • a fever
  • a rash
  • nausea and vomiting

People should speak to a doctor if they have symptoms of any of the following conditions:

  • shingles
  • giant cell arteritis
  • severe or frequent migraine episodes
  • trigeminal neuralgia
  • glaucoma

If symptoms of sinusitis carry on longer than 10 days or do not improve with treatment, a doctor can help.

People may experience pain behind or around the eyebrows for many reasons. Blocked sinuses or headaches can lead to increased pressure and pain around the eyebrows, which should pass once the cause resolves.

In other instances, eyebrow pain is due to an underlying condition, such as glaucoma.

If people have frequent or severe pain around the eyebrows or notice other symptoms, they should see a doctor.

Headache above the eyebrow. Causes of a headache in the eyebrow area.

Headache above the eyebrow. Causes of a headache in the eyebrow area.

Gimranov Rinat Fazylzhanovich
Neurologist, neurophysiologist, experience – 33 years;
Professor of Neurology, MD;
Clinic for Rehabilitation Neurology. About the author

Publication date: March 16, 2021

Updated: January 31, 2023

Headache is a common occurrence, but by its localization, concentration in a certain place, an experienced doctor will be able to quickly determine what is the root of the problem.

Normally this is not dangerous fatigue. However, in some cases, urgent medical attention is required. Let’s take a closer look at what and when.

The reason that the head hurts and presses over the right or left eyebrow in the forehead area may be a disease that is dangerous for a further full life. Therefore, if such symptoms occur on a regular basis, you need to seek help from the clinic and undergo examinations.

Article content:

  • 1 Reasons
    • 1.1 Reasons to see a doctor
  • 2 Diagnosis
  • 3 Treatment
  • 4 Prevention
  • 5 References

Causes

With a single manifestation of symptoms, the problem may lie in some temporary external factor . For example, traumatic cosmetic procedures, fatigue or too strong odors become a problem.

However, if your head hurts every day above the eyebrow in the forehead, then the cause may be serious.

Reasons to see a doctor

  1. Sinusitis, damage to the cavities in the upper jaw (1). Inflamed sinuses do not give rest, mainly in the cool season. When the head is tilted, the discomfort increases. Additional symptoms are a runny nose, nasal congestion on one or both sides. A severe variant proceeds with fever, a feeling of aching muscles and increased fatigue.
  1. Migraine, hemicrania. Common among women, but men also suffer from seizures. A characteristic sign is an extremely severe pain in the head above the left eyebrow. It interferes with sleep, thinking, perceiving the environment. Symptoms are aggravated in bright light, against the background of extraneous noise. Traditional painkillers cannot cope with an attack, but monoclonal antibodies are effective. A number of patients with refractory migraines benefit from surgery (2).
  1. Diseases of the eyes and poor eyesight also contribute to discomfort in the forehead area. After treatment and selection of suitable glasses, the problem is solved by itself.
  1. Neoplasms, benign and malignant tumors. Localization of pain in the region of the eyebrows occurs when the pathology begins to grow in the frontal lobes of the brain, the facial region of the skull. You need a thorough examination by a neurologist, a check for poor quality and an operation to remove it.
  1. Tension pains. As a result of muscle strain or a long stay in one position, unpleasant pressure sensations occur in the forehead area. You can solve the problem with rest and self-massage, which helps to relax.
  1. Head injuries of varying severity. Sometimes pain and discomfort begin to appear after a while, even a month, after complete healing.
  1. Pathologies of the cardiovascular system. A sharp change in pressure, characteristic of diseases of this type, often causes pain in the back of the head and nausea. It can also lead to discomfort in the supraorbital region. In such cases, dizziness, flies before the eyes are not excluded.

Oncology is fortunately one of the rare causes of the symptoms in question. Nevertheless, the survey algorithm includes the search for and exclusion of such processes.

Unpleasant sensations in this area can provoke everyday things, a wrong way of life. 2-4 hours in an unventilated room or alcohol abuse, often lead to the appearance of pain.

Diagnosis

A simple and correct answer to the question: “What should I do if my head hurts in the forehead, above the left or right eyebrow, or where they converge above the bridge of the nose?” – there will be an appeal to the clinic. It is especially important to do this if the attacks have become regular, albeit not very pronounced.

Medical advice is required for acute pain. Such as supraorbital neuralgia [3].

It is better to start finding out the reason with a visit to a therapist. The doctor will establish a preliminary diagnosis by analyzing the information obtained during the examination.

He is interested in:

  • How often the symptoms appear.
  • When the first time happened.
  • Intensity and specificity of pain.
  • Additional symptoms.
  • Features of your lifestyle.

After analyzing the received information, the doctor will refer the patient to a specialized doctor. Or prescribe additional tests if necessary: ​​

  • complete blood count;
  • x-ray of the head to determine the condition of the sinuses;
  • CT or MRI examination of the brain;
  • electroencephalogram.

After analyzing the results of the research, you can make an accurate diagnosis.

Treatment

When choosing a method of treatment, many factors are taken into account. Necessarily – how exactly the head hurts above the eyebrows and eyes, where it gives off, at what time of the day it manifests itself with unpleasant sensations.

To temporarily relieve an attack, it may be enough to take an anesthetic.

But remember that analgesics are a temporary way to numb the symptom. Only treating the cause of the pain can get rid of the problem.

Depending on the identified disease, the doctor selects an effective therapy. The scheme may include several components:

  • Drug treatment, selected strictly for a particular patient. Not only the current disease is taken into account, but also other features of health. This explains why doctors prescribe different medicines for the same symptoms. It is dangerous to choose drugs on your own or use the advice of people in this case [4].
  • Physiotherapeutic methods and reflexology. Depending on the specific identified disease, the most effective procedures are selected. They help the patient recover, improve well-being.
  • Surgical intervention is rarely used and only if the conservative does not give the desired effect. As a rule, patients who have neoplasms in the frontal areas of the skull and brain are sent for surgery. In this case, after the procedure, patients expect a long recovery.

Prevention

Headache above the eyebrows in the forehead can also be the result of an incorrect, traumatic daily routine. With this option, the doctor will tell you what measures to take to avoid worsening the condition.

As a rule, following several principles helps:

  • Avoid physical and mental overwork, try to periodically give yourself a little rest in the process of work.
  • Change your diet to include more fresh fruits or vegetables and eliminate canned foods.
  • Regularly spend time in the fresh air and ventilate the room in which you have to stay.
  • When you lead a sedentary lifestyle, do not forget about regular physical activity.
  • Organize sessions of acupuncture, acupuncture [5].

Some patients are indicated for preventive procedures of EHF – extremely high frequencies.

References

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Headache in the forehead and eyes: how to cope

Baku, February 16, AZERTAC

Every day, thousands of people suffer from a terrible headache. Someone has episodic attacks, and someone has to deal with regular headaches, which are also accompanied by vomiting, nausea and other unpleasant symptoms.

According to AZERTAC with reference to medical websites, most often headache in the forehead and eyes occurs after emotional breakdowns. Many experience it in the evening, when the working day ends. As a rule, the cause of such an ailment is banal overwork. It is no secret that more than 90 percent of all information people receive through vision. If the eyes are mainly focused on one thing, they experience an incredibly strong load, and pain appears in the eye sockets.

Causes and symptoms of headaches in the forehead and eyes

As soon as pain in the forehead appears, it often goes directly to the eyes. Or sometimes everything happens the other way around: first, the eyeballs tighten, and then the pain moves to the frontal region. Reasonable question: why is this happening? Why does headache appear in the forehead and eyes? What are the reasons for this condition? Any doctor can say that, in fact, a headache is a symptom of a variety of diseases. The reasons for its occurrence are incredibly many. The main causes of headache are glaucoma, migraine, myopia, high blood pressure, head trauma, overexertion, fatigue, cluster pain, and viral infections.

Mental fatigue, banal overwork is, perhaps, the very first and obvious reasons. Sending painful signals, the body seems to be saying that it’s time to rest. It is worth listening to him. All measures should be taken in a timely manner, and even better to do prevention. So, if you have a mild headache due to a heavy workload (you feel pulsations, tremors in your head), take time to rest, relax, take a few deep breaths or go out into the fresh air, give your eyes a chance to switch to other ” landscapes”. As a rule, such a headache can be managed without the participation of a doctor, but you should not ignore it.

A very interesting fact is known: sometimes a headache in the forehead can occur due to the fact that you eat unhealthy foods. Surprised? And this is true. We are talking not only about products containing caffeine (chocolate, tea, coffee), but also about fast food, nuts, cheeses, meat products. And of course, do not forget about alcohol, cigarettes. They have not yet made a single person healthy.

Quite often, acute headaches in the forehead or eyes occur due to the fact that a person is sick with something. There are many diseases that lead to severe pain syndrome.

Migraine . When headaches are felt in the forehead and eyes on one side, this may be a symptom of a migraine. Her attacks do not begin abruptly, but gradually: first, the temples pulsate, then the pain is felt in the brain. A migraine can last from a couple of minutes to three days.

Hypertension . High blood pressure is one of the causes of headaches. You can’t do without drugs. If you suffer from hypertension, you should always have a blood pressure monitor on hand. The doctor will prescribe the necessary therapy after you undergo a series of necessary examinations.

Concussion . Headache after a blow is an obvious symptom of a concussion. In this case, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Eye diseases . Headache can be caused by myopia, because this disease puts a strain on the organs of vision. What to do in this case? You need to contact an optometrist and order glasses that will improve the situation.

Glaucoma (open-angle, closed-angle) is another disease that causes headache. In this case, the eyes react painfully to light, nausea may occur. If left untreated, glaucoma can cause complete loss of vision. In this case, a visit to a doctor is mandatory.

Dangerous diseases – brain tumor, Horton’s syndrome, VVD, trigeminal neuralgia, encephalitis, stroke, temporal arteritis. They are almost always accompanied by a severe headache. The sooner you recognize the disease and begin to treat it, the greater the chance of a successful recovery.

Infections and viruses. Influenza, common cold, sinusitis, sinusitis may be accompanied by a headache in the forehead. Of particular danger is meningitis infection of the brain, accompanied by dizziness, nausea, weakness, fever. In this case, a complete examination is required, it is especially necessary if the headaches were preceded by a serious hypothermia of the body. What causes untreated meningitis? To death. Keep this in mind when you start to doubt whether to see a doctor or not.

It is important to point out that in some cases, forehead headaches can be caused by exposure to bright sun or strong winds. Sometimes pain can be caused by dryness in the eye, an injury due to a mote. The best recommendations are personal hygiene, wearing glasses from the sun.

If schoolchildren, pupils, students have a headache in the forehead, they should be given time to rest. Excessive study loads are harmful to everyone. During the period of control, exams, the brain has to process a lot of information, and during this period it is recommended to be in the fresh air as often as possible, to take frequent breaks in your studies.

Whatever the cause of a headache, it should not be left unattended. Do not think about how to quickly stop the pain syndrome, it is better to start eliminating the true cause of the pain, start treating the disease that caused this ailment.

Headache in the forehead: home treatment

If the pain is severe, and you still need to wait until you consult a doctor, you can take emergency measures to reduce the pain syndrome. Take a warm bath with the addition of chamomile decoction to the water (the method should not be practiced at high temperatures), take a break from working at the computer, from watching TV. Then the pain caused by overexertion will pass.

Try a head massage. Relax, drink tea with lemon balm, warm milk with honey.

In the same case, when you have frequent headaches, you should definitely seek professional help from a doctor. After all, an acute or severe incessant headache can indicate the presence of serious diseases, the development of a dangerous pathology. Having drowned out the pain once or twice with pills, you can only do harm. It is better to trust a specialist. He will conduct a detailed, full-scale examination, determine the diagnosis and prescribe the appropriate treatment.