What causes pain around the eye. How can you identify different types of eye pain. When should you seek medical attention for eye discomfort. What are effective treatments for pain behind the eye.

Understanding Eye Pain: Common Causes and Symptoms

Pain behind the eye is a symptom that can be associated with various health conditions. The discomfort can range from dull aches to sharp, intense pains, and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as tearing, light sensitivity, redness, vision changes, or pain during eye movement. While there are numerous potential causes, this article focuses on seven common reasons for pain behind the eye.

Eyestrain: A Modern-Day Culprit

In our digital age, eyestrain has become an increasingly common cause of eye discomfort. Extended periods of staring at screens, exposure to glare, poor lighting conditions, and long-distance driving can all contribute to eyestrain.

Symptoms of Eyestrain

• Dry, tired eyes
• Blurred vision
• Discomfort after prolonged screen time

Is eyestrain preventable? Absolutely. Implementing the 20-20-20 rule (looking at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes) can significantly reduce eye fatigue. Additionally, using artificial tears and maintaining proper screen distance can alleviate symptoms.

Migraine: More Than Just a Headache

Migraine is a neurological condition that affects approximately 20% of the population, with a higher prevalence in females. It often causes severe headaches and pain behind the eye.

Distinctive Migraine Symptoms

• Visual disturbances (aura)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sensitivity to light, sound, and smells

Can migraines be managed effectively? While there’s no cure, a combination of preventive measures and targeted treatments can help. Over-the-counter pain relievers may suffice for some, but prescription medications like triptans (Imitrex, Amerge, Zomig) are often necessary for more severe cases. Identifying and avoiding triggers is crucial for prevention.

Sinus Infections: When Your Sinuses Rebel

Sinus infections, often mistaken for migraines, can cause significant pain behind the eyes. These infections occur when the air-filled spaces in the skull become inflamed or infected.

Recognizing Sinus Infection Symptoms

• Thick, discolored nasal discharge
• Facial pain and pressure
• Impaired sense of smell
• Fever

How are sinus infections treated? For bacterial infections, antibiotics are typically prescribed. However, accurate diagnosis is crucial, as sinus infections and migraines can present similarly. In some cases, CT scans may be necessary to differentiate between the two conditions.

Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis: A Rare but Serious Condition

Cavernous sinus thrombosis is an uncommon but potentially life-threatening condition characterized by a blood clot in the cavernous sinus, a vein located at the base of the skull.

Risk Factors and Causes

• Bacterial infections (sinusitis, dental infections, pharyngitis)
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Cancer treatments

What are the warning signs of cavernous sinus thrombosis? Symptoms often include severe, sudden headaches, along with pain or swelling around the eyes and vision changes. Due to its serious nature, immediate medical attention is crucial if these symptoms occur.

Glaucoma: Silent Thief of Sight

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often due to increased pressure within the eye. While many forms of glaucoma develop slowly and painlessly, some types can cause sudden eye pain.

Types of Glaucoma

1. Open-angle glaucoma (most common, typically painless)
2. Angle-closure glaucoma (can cause sudden, severe eye pain)
3. Normal-tension glaucoma
4. Congenital glaucoma

How is glaucoma diagnosed and treated? Regular eye exams are crucial for early detection. Treatment options include eye drops, oral medications, laser treatments, and surgery, depending on the type and severity of the condition.

Optic Neuritis: When the Optic Nerve Inflames

Optic neuritis is an inflammation of the optic nerve that can cause pain behind the eye, especially when moving the eye. It’s often associated with multiple sclerosis but can occur independently.

Symptoms of Optic Neuritis

• Pain with eye movement
• Sudden vision loss in one eye
• Color vision changes
• Flashing lights

Does optic neuritis require immediate treatment? While some cases resolve on their own, corticosteroids are often prescribed to reduce inflammation and potentially speed up recovery. Prompt medical evaluation is essential to rule out underlying conditions.

Orbital Cellulitis: When Infection Strikes the Eye Socket

Orbital cellulitis is a serious bacterial infection affecting the tissues surrounding the eye. It can cause significant pain and swelling around the eye area.

Causes and Risk Factors

• Spread of sinus infections
• Trauma to the eye area
• Recent eye surgery
• Dental infections

Is orbital cellulitis a medical emergency? Absolutely. This condition requires immediate medical attention and typically involves hospitalization for intravenous antibiotics. Delayed treatment can lead to vision loss or life-threatening complications.

Seeking Professional Help: When to Consult a Doctor

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

• Sudden, severe eye pain
• Vision changes or loss
• Eye pain accompanied by fever or severe headache
• Pain that persists despite over-the-counter treatments
• Swelling or redness around the eye

How can you prepare for a doctor’s visit regarding eye pain? Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, including when they started, their duration, and any factors that seem to worsen or alleviate the pain. This information can be invaluable in helping your healthcare provider make an accurate diagnosis.

Holistic Approaches to Eye Health

While medical treatments are often necessary for eye pain, several holistic approaches can support overall eye health and potentially prevent some causes of discomfort:

Nutrition for Eye Health

• Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish, flaxseed, and walnuts)
• Vitamins A, C, and E
• Lutein and zeaxanthin (found in leafy greens and colorful fruits)

Can diet really impact eye health? Research suggests that a balanced diet rich in certain nutrients can support eye health and potentially reduce the risk of some eye conditions.

Lifestyle Modifications

1. Regular exercise to improve circulation
2. Adequate sleep to reduce eye strain
3. Proper hydration
4. Stress management techniques

How do these lifestyle changes benefit eye health? By promoting overall health and reducing stress, these modifications can indirectly support eye health and potentially alleviate some causes of eye discomfort.

The Role of Regular Eye Exams

Regular eye exams play a crucial role in maintaining eye health and detecting potential issues before they become serious. During these exams, eye care professionals can:

• Check for early signs of eye diseases
• Update prescriptions for glasses or contact lenses
• Assess overall eye health
• Provide personalized advice on eye care

How often should you have an eye exam? For most adults, an eye exam every 1-2 years is recommended. However, those with existing eye conditions or risk factors may need more frequent check-ups.

Technological Advancements in Eye Care

The field of ophthalmology is constantly evolving, with new technologies emerging to improve diagnosis and treatment of eye conditions. Some recent advancements include:

Diagnostic Tools

• Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)
• Fundus Photography
• Corneal Topography

How do these technologies benefit patients? These advanced imaging techniques allow for earlier detection and more precise monitoring of eye conditions, potentially leading to better outcomes.

Treatment Innovations

1. Gene therapy for inherited retinal diseases
2. Artificial intelligence in diagnosing eye conditions
3. Minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries
4. Advanced intraocular lenses for cataract surgery

Are these new treatments widely available? While some of these innovations are still in research stages, many are becoming increasingly accessible in specialized eye care centers.

The Impact of Digital Devices on Eye Health

In our increasingly digital world, the impact of screen time on eye health has become a significant concern. Prolonged use of digital devices can lead to a condition known as Computer Vision Syndrome or Digital Eye Strain.

Symptoms of Digital Eye Strain

• Eye fatigue and discomfort
• Headaches
• Blurred vision
• Dry eyes
• Neck and shoulder pain

Can digital eye strain be prevented? While it’s difficult to avoid screens entirely in modern life, several strategies can help reduce the impact:

1. Implementing the 20-20-20 rule
2. Adjusting screen brightness and contrast
3. Using blue light filtering glasses or screen protectors
4. Maintaining proper posture and ergonomics
5. Ensuring regular blinking

By implementing these strategies, individuals can significantly reduce the risk of digital eye strain and associated discomfort.

Understanding the Connection Between Eye Health and Systemic Diseases

The eyes are often described as “windows to the soul,” but they can also be windows to overall health. Many systemic diseases can manifest symptoms in the eyes, making regular eye exams an important part of preventive healthcare.

Systemic Diseases with Ocular Manifestations

• Diabetes (diabetic retinopathy)
• Hypertension (hypertensive retinopathy)
• Autoimmune diseases (uveitis in rheumatoid arthritis)
• Multiple sclerosis (optic neuritis)
• Thyroid disorders (Graves’ ophthalmopathy)

How can eye exams contribute to overall health management? By detecting these ocular manifestations early, eye care professionals can often alert patients and their primary care physicians to potential systemic health issues, leading to earlier intervention and better outcomes.

The Psychological Impact of Eye Pain and Vision Problems

While the physical aspects of eye pain and vision problems are often the primary focus, it’s crucial to acknowledge the psychological impact these conditions can have on individuals. Chronic eye pain or vision impairment can significantly affect quality of life, leading to:

• Anxiety and depression
• Social isolation
• Reduced work productivity
• Decreased independence
• Lowered self-esteem

How can patients cope with the psychological effects of eye conditions? A multidisciplinary approach involving eye care professionals, mental health specialists, and support groups can be beneficial. Cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness techniques, and adaptive strategies can help individuals manage the emotional challenges associated with eye conditions.

The Future of Eye Care: Emerging Trends and Research

As we look to the future, several exciting developments in eye care are on the horizon. These advancements promise to revolutionize how we diagnose, treat, and prevent eye conditions.

Promising Areas of Research

1. Stem cell therapy for retinal regeneration
2. Nanotechnology in drug delivery for eye conditions
3. Bionic eyes for certain types of blindness
4. Personalized medicine based on genetic profiles
5. Virtual and augmented reality in vision therapy

What impact will these advancements have on eye care? While many of these technologies are still in development, they hold the potential to dramatically improve outcomes for patients with various eye conditions, potentially even restoring sight in cases previously considered untreatable.

As we continue to unravel the complexities of eye health and develop new technologies, the future of eye care looks bright. However, the importance of basic eye health practices – regular check-ups, protective measures, and prompt attention to symptoms – remains paramount. By combining cutting-edge advancements with fundamental eye care principles, we can look forward to a future with better vision and eye health for all.

7 causes of pain behind the eye

Pain behind the eye can result from eyestrain, migraine, dental problems, glaucoma, giant cell arteritis, and other causes. Treatment will depend on the cause, but applying cool or warm compresses may help.

Pain behind the eye is a nonspecific symptom as it can be associated with many different health conditions.

Common types of pain behind the eye vary from dull aches to sharp and intense pains. Some people experience a sharp pain behind while others have a deeper pain inside the head. Symptoms can also include tearing, sensitivity to light, redness, vision changes, or pain during eye movement.

This article examines the possible causes of pain behind the eye, treatments, alternative therapies, and when to consult a doctor if the pain persists.

Reviewing the possible causes for pain behind the eye may provide people with a better sense of the signs of discomfort and when to seek medical help.

There are as many as 300 types of headaches, including those that may cause pain behind the eye. The specific causes are known for only about 10% of headaches. Where a person feels pain does not necessarily correspond to what is causing it.

Many different health issues can cause pain behind the eye, including the following:

Straining the eyes can leave them feeling dry, tired, and blurry.

Research has shown that if a person stares at something for an extended time, they tend to blink less, so eyes become less moist. People should keep screens at a comfortable distance and take breaks from digital devices to reduce eyestrain.

The following may put people at risk of eyestrain:

• spending long hours staring at a screen
• being exposed to glare
• straining eyes in poor lighting
• driving long distances
• struggling to get by without glasses or an updated prescription when needed
• other underlying vision problems

Treatment

Giving the eyes a chance to rest and recover can do a lot to relieve pain behind the eye due to eye strain. People can use the 20-20-20 rule, which involves looking away to a distance of at least 20 feet for 20 seconds every 20 minutes.

People may also try over-the-counter (OTC) artificial tears to help relieve dry, tired eyes.

Migraine is a common condition related to the brain that can often cause headaches along with extreme pain behind the eye. Migraine affects roughly 2 in 10 people, occurs in females more than males, and tends to run families.

Other symptoms

Migraine symptoms may also include visual disturbances, such as:

• shimmering lights
• zig-zag lines
• flashes of light

These disturbances may occur on only one side of the head and worsen with movement, exposure to sound, light, or strong smells.

Migraine headaches may also cause people to feel nauseated or experience vomiting.

Treatment

Doctors may recommend nonprescription medications, such as aspirin and ibuprofen.

However, people with migraine often need prescription medications. These medications balance the chemical changes leading to a migraine and include:

• Imitrex
• Amerge
• Zomig

If migraine attacks are severe or happen frequently, a doctor may recommend taking daily medication like beta-blockers.

The best remedy to prevent migraine is to avoid triggers where possible. Common triggers include:

• certain foods, like aged cheeses and red wine
• food additives and artificial sweeteners
• hormonal imbalances, for example, during pregnancy or menstruation
• emotional stress or anxiety
• environmental factors, including smells, temperatures, sounds, or lights
• irregular sleep patterns
• poor posture
• dehydration
• certain medications, including sleeping pills or hormonal treatments

Doctors often misdiagnose sinus infection as migraine due to the overlap in symptoms and triggers such as weather changes. A person must consult a medical professional to determine the cause of any headache.

Other symptoms

Thick, discolored nasal discharge is a common symptom of a viral or bacterial infection in the sinuses.

Other symptoms may include:

• headaches
• facial pain
• a feeling of pressure
• an impaired sense of smell
• fever

Treatment

Doctors may prescribe antibiotics to treat this type of infection if it is bacterial.

In some cases, doctors will use a CT scan to determine whether sinus disease or migraine is causing the pain.

This rare condition occurs when a potentially life threatening or a septic blood clot develops in the cavernous sinus. The cavernous sinus is a vein running between the bottom of the brain to the back of the eye sockets. A bacterial infection often causes this condition.

Septic cavernous sinus thrombosis can occur due to the following conditions:

• sinusitis
• dental infections
• pharyngitis
• tonsillitis
• other ear, nose, or throat infections

People with uncontrolled diabetes or receiving treatment for cancer may be at risk of developing cavernous sinus thrombosis.

Other symptoms

Symptoms may include:

• a severe, sudden headache
• pain or swelling around the eyes
• vision changes
• high fever

Treatment

Doctors tend to treat this condition with antibiotics and antimicrobial therapies, typically for 3–4 weeks. They should monitor patients’ conditions closely even after the discontinuation of antibiotics.

Other experts recommend anticoagulants to thin blood and therefore prevent further blood clots. Doctors typically prescribe these for several weeks to several months.

Doctors consider this type of treatment effective in slowing down the progression of blood cots and reducing the mortality rate. However, there is also some controversy surrounding anticoagulants as they can result in hemorrhage or bleeding.

Another option that doctors often prescribe is corticosteroids, as there is a potential benefit of reducing inflammation. Doctors do not recommend surgical interventions for the cavernous sinuses themselves.

In cases where the blood clot is septic and potentially fatal, a person may require hospitalization, often in an intensive care unit.

Three nerve branches run through the jaw and eye areas, meaning that issues with the jaw could potentially lead to pain behind and around the eye.

Dental and bite problems that can cause pain behind the eye include tooth infections and temporomandibular (TMJ) disorder, which is dysfunction in the jaw joint.

Other symptoms

If TMJ causes orbital eye pain, people may also experience:

• eye strain
• watery eyes
• sensitivity to light

Treatment

If doctors have ruled out other medical conditions causing pain behind the eye, they may recommend consulting an orthodontist to check jaw joints and bite.

Realigning the bite with custom-made aligners for the teeth, through orthodontic treatment, can reduce the stress put on the muscles and joints in the head and neck. This treatment may alleviate nerve pain and pain behind the eye.

The two types of glaucoma are primary open-angle and angle-closure.

Risk factors include a family history of the condition and other eye-related injuries or surgeries.

Primary open-angle glaucoma is where eye fluid does not drain correctly, causing damage to the optic nerve. However, this type of glaucoma is painless.

Angle-closure glaucoma occurs when a person’s iris blocks the drainage angle where eye fluid leaves the eye. When this is blocked, pressure builds up quickly, and immediate medical attention is needed to protect the vision.

Other symptoms

Symptoms include:

• sudden, severe eye pain
• headache
• blurry vision
• nausea
• vomiting
• seeing halos around lights

Treatment

Medical treatment for angle-closure glaucoma may include eye drops or laser surgery.

A person must use daily eye drops to reduce eye pressure. While this treatment will help maintain the vision, there will be several side effects associated with this medication, including:

• a stinging sensation
• red eyes or inflamed skin around the eyes
• blurred vision
• eyelash growth
• breathing changes
• changes in energy levels
• changes in pulse and heartbeat

The type of surgery used for angle-closure glaucoma is an iridotomy. An ophthalmologist will create a hole in the iris using a laser to help eye fluid flow through the drainage angle.

This condition is a type of vasculitis, a group of rare diseases causing inflammation of the blood vessels. Giant cell arteritis (GCA), which is also referred to temporal arteritis, may cause the arteries in the scalp, head, and temples to swell.

GCA can also occur alongside joint pain disorder known as polymyalgia rheumatica. This condition is a cause of widespread aches and stiffness in people over 50.

Other symptoms

Symptoms of GCA include:

• a new, persisting headache
• fever
• fatigue
• loss of appetite
• temporary loss of vision

Permanent loss of vision can occur in some cases, but appropriate treatment can prevent this.

Treatment

GCA requires immediate medical treatment to reduce the risk of loss of vision. The treatment usually involves high doses of corticosteroids, typically 40–60 milligrams (mg) per day of prednisone for a month.

In most cases, doctors reduce the dose to about 5–10 mg per day for a few months or up to a year. GCA rarely returns after treatment.

In 2017, doctors approved tocilizumab (Actemra) as an effective treatment for GCA as more people are in remission. Medical professionals can administer this drug intravenously on a monthly basis, or patients can self-administer an injection every 1–2 weeks.

The following complementary practices may help people find relief for headaches, which could include pain behind the eye:

• acupuncture
• massaging pressure points
• biofeedback therapy
• relaxation therapy

Home remedies

There are also some common home remedies to prevent or help relieve pain behind the eye, including:

• applying cold or warm compresses
• staying well-hydrated, such as through drinking herbal teas
• exercising regularly
• getting plenty of rest
• limiting alcohol and caffeine use
• relaxing muscles in a hot bath or shower
• avoiding noisy and bright environments
• reducing screen time
• using OTC pain relievers
• reducing stress where appropriate
• magnesium supplements, particularly in the case of migraine attacks

While some conditions improve with home care and OTC medications, other symptoms require prompt medical attention.

Signs that it is time to see a doctor include pain that:

• is severe
• gets worse with time, coughing, or movement
• is accompanied by fever, numbness, a stiff neck, slurred speech, confusion, or visual disturbances
• develops quickly
• is accompanied by a sore, red eye or sore, tender temples
• develops in people with impaired immune systems or cancers

The outlook for pain behind the eye depends on the cause. Doctors can use several treatments to treat the cause of the pain.

Specific causes of pain behind the eye, such as migraine, may be more likely if people have a family history of the condition. It is important to have frequent check-ups with medical professionals to discuss the risk and the signs to look out for.

Other causes, such as eye strain, may resolve with home remedies, including adequate rest and drinking enough water. Doctors may also recommend nonprescription drugs, such as ibuprofen. Alternative therapies may improve the outlook for certain eye conditions.

Some causes of eye pain could require a course of prescription drugs, including steroids, and in some cases, medical treatment and long-term care.

The location of the eye pain may not be related to the cause. A person should keep track of triggers and other symptoms that accompany the pain. This information will help a doctor make an informed diagnosis and provide suitable recommendations for treatment.

Why Do My Eyes Hurt? 11 Possible Causes of Eye Pain and Soreness

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• Where Does It Hurt?
• Common Eye Problems
• Other Symptoms
• Tests to Diagnose Eye Pain
• Treatments

Nearly everyone has had sore eyes at some point. Sometimes they get better on their own, but they can also be a sign of something more serious.

Your eye doctor can figure out what’s going on and find the right treatment for you.

Sometimes discomfort or pain results from a problem in your eye or the parts around it, such as:

• Cornea: The clear window in the front of your eye that focuses light
• Sclera: The whites of your eyes
• Conjunctiva: The ultra-thin covering of your sclera and the inside of your eyelid
• Iris: The colored part of your eye, with the pupil in the middle
• Orbit: A bony cave (eye socket) in your skull where the eye and its muscles are located.
• Extraocular muscles: They rotate your eye.
• Nerves: They carry visual information from your eyes to your brain.
• Eyelids: Outside coverings that protect and spread moisture over your eyes.

Blepharitis: An inflammation or infection of the eyelid which typically is not painful

Conjunctivitis (pinkeye): This is inflammation of the conjunctiva. It can be from allergies or infections (viral or bacterial). Blood vessels in the conjunctiva swell. This makes the part of your eye that’s usually white look red. Your eye could also get itchy and gunky. This condition is typically not painful.

Corneal abrasions: That’s the official name for a scratch on this part of your eye. It sounds minor, but it can hurt. It’s easy to do, too. You can scratch your eye while rubbing it. Your doctor will give you antibiotic drops. It should get better in a couple of days without further problems.

Corneal infections (keratitis): An inflamed or infected cornea is sometimes caused by a bacterial or viral infection. You may be more likely to get it if you leave your contacts in overnight or wear dirty lenses.

Foreign bodies: Something in your eye, like a bit of dirt, can irritate it. Try to rinse it out with artificial tears or water. If you don’t get it out, it can scratch your eye.

Glaucoma: This family of conditions causes fluid to build up in your eye. That puts pressure on your optic nerve. If you don’t treat it, you could lose your sight. Most of the time there are no early symptoms. But a type called acute angle-closure glaucoma causes pressure inside your eye to rise suddenly. Symptoms include severe eye pain, nausea and vomiting, headache, and worsening vision. This is an emergency. You need treatment ASAP to prevent blindness.

Iritis or uveitis: An inflammation inside your eye from trauma, infections, or problems with your immune system. Symptoms include pain, red eye, and, often, worse vision.

Optic neuritis: An inflammation of the nerve that travels from the back of the eyeball into your brain. Multiple sclerosis and other conditions or infections are often to blame. Symptoms include loss of vision and sometimes deep discomfort when you look from side to side.

Sinusitis: An infection in one of your sinuses. When pressure builds up behind your eyes, it can cause pain on one or both sides.

Stye: This is a tender bump on the edge of your eyelid. It happens when an oil gland, eyelash, or hair follicle gets infected or inflamed. You may hear your doctor call it a chalazion or hordeolum.

Eye pain can happen on its own or with other symptoms, like:

• Less vision
• Discharge: It can be clear or thick and colored
• Foreign body sensation — the feeling that something is in the eye, whether real or imagined
• Headache
• Light sensitivity
• Nausea or vomiting
• Red eye or pinkeye
• Tearing
• Your eye is crusted shut with discharge when you wake up.

Other symptoms along with sore eyes can be a clue to what is causing the pain.

See your eye doctor if you have eye pain, especially if you have less vision, headache, or nausea and vomiting.

Eye doctors use a variety of tools to diagnose eye pain:

• A slit-lamp exam uses bright light to look at all the structures of your eye.
• Dilating drops expand your pupil to let the doctor see deep into your eye.
• A tonometer is a tool that measures eye pressure. The doctor uses it to diagnose glaucoma.

Just as causes can vary, so do treatments. They target the specific cause of eye pain.

Conjunctivitis: Antibacterial eyedrops can cure bacterial conjunctivitis. Antihistamines in the form of eyedrops, a pill, or a syrup can improve conjunctivitis from allergies.

Corneal abrasions: These heal on their own with time. Your doctor might prescribe an antibiotic ointment or drops.

Glaucoma: You’ll get eyedrops and maybe pills to reduce pressure. If they don’t work, you may need surgery.

Infected cornea: You may need antiviral or antibacterial eyedrops.

Iritis: The doctor will treat this with steroid, antibiotic, or antiviral eyedrops.

Optic neuritis: It’s treated with corticosteroids.

Styes: Use warm compresses at home for a few days.

The only way to sort out the causes of eye pain and to get the right treatment is to see a doctor. Your vision is precious. Protect it by taking eye pain seriously.

Top Picks

how it manifests, causes, symptoms and prevention

Primary glaucoma is a progressive disease of both eyes, characterized by increased intraocular pressure (IOP) and the development of glaucomatous optic nerve atrophy, eventually leading to irreversible blindness. Glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness and low vision among other eye diseases worldwide. The danger of the problem lies in the absence of vivid symptoms, glaucoma is often called the “silent killer” of the optic nerve, even if good vision remains, a person may have the penultimate stage of glaucoma development. The figure shows how the peripheral field of view changes:

Normal field of view

Narrowed field of vision, corresponds to stage II glaucoma

Narrow field of view, corresponds to stage III glaucoma, >70% of the nerve fibers of the optic nerve died We conduct a comprehensive diagnostic examination, which includes 12 diagnostic tests and takes about 1.5 hours. The value of such a detailed examination lies in determining the type and stage of glaucoma, the degree of intraocular pressure compensation, and determining the “target pressure”. Target pressure is a level of intraocular pressure at which further death of the nerve fibers of the optic nerve is suspended; this is the pressure to which it is necessary to strive for the treatment of a patient with glaucoma. It is also possible to conduct an examination – electrotonography, with which it is possible to determine the ratio of inflow and outflow of intraocular fluid. Electrotonography parameters influence the choice of further treatment. Hypotensive eye drops, laser or surgical treatment is prescribed for each patient individually.

Glaucoma can be either open-angle or closed-angle.

Open-angle glaucoma “does not hurt” and the patient will come to the doctor only when vision is reduced. In this case, the treatment may no longer be effective.

Angle-closure glaucoma is accompanied by periodic pain in the eye, in the corresponding half of the head, manifested by an acute pain attack, in which intraocular pressure will be significantly increased, and visual acuity will be noticeably reduced. If such an attack is not removed in time, the eye will go blind.

The goal of glaucoma treatment is to reduce intraocular pressure to a safe level for each individual patient, to prevent the development of optic nerve atrophy.

Optical tomograph Cyrrus HD OCT

An indisputable advantage of the complex diagnosis of glaucoma in our Clinic is the study of the condition of the optic nerve using the method of optical coherence tomography of the eye, which allows to determine the size, area, depth of glaucomatous changes in the optic nerve, the thickness of the nerve fibers, which is very valuable information for early detection of glaucoma. This is a highly informative intravital layered diagnosis of the optic nerve.

The photograph shows the optic disc of a patient with glaucoma. A deep “pit” is visible – excavation of the optic disc, which occurs as a result of squeezing and death of nerve fibers from too high intraocular pressure

It is important to remember the risk factors for glaucoma:

• age over 40 years;
• the presence of glaucoma in the immediate family;
• high or low blood pressure;
• myopia II-III degree;
• hyperopia;
• long-term use of steroid drugs.

Norm of intraocular pressure (IOP): it is generally accepted to consider the normal level of IOP with contact tonometry from 17 to 24 mmHg. If you take into account risk factors, then each person has his own “safe” IOP rate. With an increase in IOP beyond a safe level in the eye, irreversible changes in the optic nerve fibers occur, which lead to a narrowing of the field of vision, and then to complete blindness.

Glaucoma can be either open-angle or closed-angle. Before understanding how glaucoma develops, it is necessary to understand how fluid circulates inside the eye.

Fluid is produced inside the eyeball by a structure called the ciliary body. Fluid passes through the pupil and leaves the eye through the eye’s drainage system, the trabecular meshwork. In healthy eyes, there is a balance between the fluid that is produced in the eye and the fluid that flows out of the eye. As a result, normal pressure is established inside the eye. This pressure is called intraocular pressure, it is measured by the doctor at the reception.

Open-angle glaucoma is the most common type of glaucoma. It runs latently without any symptoms. Even a significant increase in the level of IOP can go unnoticed by a person, the eye does not hurt, but gradually becomes blind. The reason for the increase in IOP is the clogging of the drainage system of the eye – the trabecular network, through which the outflow of fluid from the eye is carried out. As a result, fluid cannot leave the eye at the same rate as it is produced. There is an accumulation of excess fluid, which leads to an increase in IOP. If not treated, then in the future there is a loss of the peripheral, then the central field of vision, followed by atrophy of the optic nerve and blindness.

The figure shows the optic disc in the normal state (left) and in the developed stage (right). The upper part of the figure shows the changes in the visual fields.

Angle-closure glaucoma is manifested by attacks, during which there is a sharp pain in the eye area, pain in the superciliary region and temple area, accompanied by a sharp decrease in vision, the appearance of “fog”. With such complaints, it is necessary to urgently consult a doctor for medical help. Lack of timely assistance can lead to irreversible blindness! In angle-closure glaucoma, fluid builds up inside the eye because the iris blocks the angle of the anterior chamber of the eye, meaning there is no access to the eye’s natural drainage system. Anything that can dilate the pupil, such as dim light, certain medications, and even eye drops that dilate the pupil before an eye exam, can cause the iris to block the circulation of aqueous humor in some people. When this form of the disease occurs, the eyeball quickly hardens, and the suddenly raised pressure causes pain and blurred vision. It is with this form of the disease that an acute attack is possible – a sharp increase in pressure in the eye. Due to the fact that it is accompanied by nausea and a general deterioration in the condition, it is often confused with other diseases and time is missed. And help in this case should be provided in the next day, otherwise blindness may occur.

Goal of glaucoma treatment:

• Reduction of intraocular pressure to a safe level.
• Preservation of visual functions, stabilization of the glaucoma process.

It must be remembered that the earlier glaucoma is detected, the higher the chance of maintaining good vision! Reducing IOP is achieved in three ways: medication, laser or surgical treatment. All three techniques are carried out in our Clinic by highly qualified specialists using the latest equipment that meets modern standards for the treatment of glaucoma.

It is also important to maintain visual functions when a normal IOP level is reached. To do this, there are courses of anti-dystrophic vascular therapy, which are also carried out in the conditions of our treatment room. Treatment takes an average of 10 days, consists of parabulbar (into the periorbital tissue), intravenous, intramuscular injections, electrical stimulation of the optic nerve.

If your eye hurts – all about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment

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Why eyes can hurt

The most common causes of eye pain are various types of injuries:

• thermal and chemical burns;
• mechanical damage.

Less common sources of pain are infections of the eye and conjunctiva, optic nerve and choroid, as well as ophthalmic hypertension, pathology of the facial trigeminal nerve, and head trauma. Let’s talk about how the mentioned pathologies manifest themselves and how much they threaten eye health.

Eye burns

Thermal and chemical lesions are characterized by an instantaneous acute reaction:

• increased photosensitivity;
• burning and cutting;
• profuse lachrymation;
• swelling of the eyelids and mucous membranes of the eye.

The cornea with any type of burn can become cloudy. Painful sensations intensify over time, it becomes difficult to open the eye. Hyperemic tissues become pale, indicating a violation of blood circulation.

Mechanical eye injuries

Most often, the cornea of ​​​​the eyes is subjected to mechanical damage. The nature of pain in such pathologies is acute, burning, does not increase with time. When foreign bodies enter, they can be seen on the surface of the cornea or conjunctiva. With penetrating wounds, through defects are visible on the eye.

Signs of injury:

• uncontrolled closing of the eyelids (blepharospasm), which can only be opened manually;
• increased lacrimation;
• hyperemia of the conjunctiva, manifestation of a vascular pattern on the cornea;
• Blurred vision in the injured eye.

If left untreated, injuries and burns can be complicated by infection, corneal perforation and the penetration of pathogenic flora into the eyeball. This, in turn, can lead to an irreversible decrease in visual acuity or complete blindness, and in some cases to loss of an eye.

Conjunctivitis

Inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eye is accompanied by swelling and redness of the conjunctiva, pain is moderate, combined with itching, burning, lacrimation.

In the bacterial form, a yellowish or green purulent mass is released from the eyes. At night, it dries up on the eyelashes, making it difficult to open the eyelids in the morning. With allergic and adenovirus forms, there is no pus, but the discomfort in the eyes is usually more intense.

Conjunctivitis is dangerous for the eyes with the risk of inflammation spreading to the cornea. In the absence of therapy, atrophic processes may begin, in advanced cases, corneal perforation and irreversible loss of vision.

Keratitis

Inflammation of the cornea with external manifestations is similar to conjunctivitis, but the eyes hurt many times more. The intensity of the symptom is so high that blepharospasm occurs – reactive closing of the eyelids, which cannot be opened without the help of a doctor.

Other signs of keratitis:

• petechial hemorrhages and increased capillary pattern in the eyes;
• decreased visual acuity;
• visible defects on the cornea are possible – cloudy spots, defects in the form of branching foci.

Since the cornea is the natural shell of the eyes, its damage during inflammation is fraught with infection of the vitreous body, retina and optic nerve. All these pathologies can lead to partial or complete loss of vision in one or both eyes.

Uveitis

Inflammation of the choroid in the eyes is accompanied by diffuse redness of the eyeball, dull pains extending to the orbit, tearing and decreased visual acuity in the form of blurring.

Uveitis can provoke persistent malnutrition of the eyes, retinal atrophy, and irreversible vision loss.

Increased intraocular pressure

With ophthalmohypertension, not only the eyes hurt, but also the head in the forehead, crown, and bridge of the nose. Discomfort is most noticeable in the morning, sometimes aggravated by bending over. Pathology is accompanied by petechial hemorrhages, iridescent stains when looking at bright light, nausea, vomiting, deterioration in visual acuity.

An increase in intraocular pressure without treatment can lead to the development of angle-closure glaucoma and its complications: lens luxation and blindness, corneal perforation, and total blindness.

Neurological eye pain

Neuralgia may be accompanied by irradiation to the eyes. Most often they are the result of increased intracranial pressure, supraorbital or trigeminal neuralgia against the background of inflammation of the corresponding nerves, migraine. Signs of these pathologies are:

• intense pain syndrome, localized on one side, mainly in the forehead, face, superciliary arches;
• unilateral lacrimation – on the side of the affected eye;
• violations of oculomotor functions, eye paresis or forced immobility of the eyeballs due to a reactive increase in discomfort;
• double vision;
• blurred vision.

Neurological pathologies do not pose a direct threat to vision, however, they can lead to a violation of the innervation of the muscles in the eyes. This can lead to strabismus, myopia and hyperopia, spasm of accommodation and blepharospasm.

Diagnostics

Finding out the causes of discomfort in the eyeballs begins with the use of local analgesics. They help relieve the symptom and avoid reactive blepharospasm. After the drug works, diagnostic procedures are carried out:

• visiometry, which helps to assess the degree of visual acuity impairment;
• non-contact tonometry for measuring intraocular pressure;
• biomicroscopy, which reveals even minor defects of the cornea and conjunctiva;
• ophthalmoscopy, which reveals violations of the capillary blood supply to the eyes, which determines the state of the retina and the optical environment;
• Ultrasound, which allows you to determine the internal damage of the body, to detect foreign bodies in injuries;
• radiography that shows radiopaque foreign bodies, orbital lesions, etc.

If there are signs of infections, an analysis of the material taken from the surface of the conjunctiva and cornea is carried out to determine the flora.

Based on the information received, a diagnosis is made and appropriate treatment is prescribed for the disease.

How to relieve eye pain

As a first aid for injuries and inflammations of the eyes, the cornea and conjunctiva are washed with antiseptics or clean water. This will help remove foreign particles, exudate residues, chemicals and allergens.

Important! It is strictly forbidden to remove foreign bodies on your own, especially if they penetrate the inside of the eyeball.

You can contact an ophthalmologist or an ophthalmic surgeon with a problem. If there is no such specialist, you can make an appointment with a surgeon, but in most cases, the doctor will refer the patient to a specialist in the field of ophthalmology.

In most cases, conservative therapy can be dispensed with. Drugs are selected taking into account the origin of the symptom:

• analgesics in the form of drops or tablets for oral administration – for neurological and hypertensive disorders;
• local and systemic antibiotics, effective against the detected microflora, for inflammation of various structures of the eye;
• antiseptic solutions – for injuries and burns, inflammations and infections;
• local remedies – in the presence of erosions, other types of defects on the cornea and conjunctiva;
• local antihistamines – for allergic forms of conjunctivitis.