Some of the Most Common Reasons You May Be Feeling Eye Pain

Eye pain can range from mild discomfort to a severe and debilitating experience. It can be caused by various factors, making it essential to visit vision centers to understand the root cause of your eye problem. Understanding the most common causes of eye pain will help you identify potential triggers and take appropriate steps to alleviate your discomfort. This blog will enumerate some of the most common reasons you may feel eye pain.

Dry Eyes

Dry eyes are a common cause of eye discomfort and pain. This condition occurs when our eyes do not have enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly. It can lead to inflammation, redness, and a gritty eye sensation. 

Various factors, including aging, medications, certain medical conditions, and prolonged exposure to digital screens, can cause dry eyes. To alleviate dry eye symptoms, you can use artificial tears, take regular breaks from screens, and maintain a healthy indoor environment.

Eye Strain

Eye strain, or asthenopia, is a common cause of eye pain. It can occur when the eyes are overused or subjected to prolonged periods of intense focus, such as reading, staring at computer screens, or driving for extended periods. 

Eye strain can cause discomfort, blurred vision, and headaches. To prevent eye strain, practice the 20-20-20 rule – every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. Adjusting the lighting and ergonomics of your workspace can also help alleviate eye strain.

Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

Pink eye is an inflammation of the conjunctiva. This thin, transparent tissue covers the eye’s white part and lines the eyelids’ inside. Bacterial or viral infections, allergies, or irritants like smoke or chemicals can cause this condition. 

Symptoms include redness, itching, discharge, and eye pain. Treatment varies depending on the cause but may include antibiotic or antiviral eye drops and over-the-counter anti-allergy medications for allergic conjunctivitis. If you suspect you have conjunctivitis, it is essential to visit an eye specialist.

Corneal Abrasion 

A corneal abrasion occurs when the cornea’s surface, the eye’s clear, protective outer layer, becomes scratched or damaged. It can be caused by foreign objects, such as dust or sand, rubbing against the eye, or wearing contact lenses for extended periods. 

Corneal abrasions can cause significant eye pain, sensitivity to light, and blurred vision. Treatment may include antibiotic eye drops and pain relief medication. It is essential to consult with an eye specialist if you suspect a corneal abrasion to prevent further complications.

Glaucoma

This eye condition damages the optic nerve, which transmits visual information from the eye to the brain. This damage is often caused by an increase in pressure inside the eye. 

Glaucoma can cause eye pain and other symptoms such as blurred vision, halos around lights, and loss of peripheral vision. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to irreversible vision loss. Treatment options include eye drops, oral medications, and surgery, depending on the severity of the condition.

Uveitis

It refers to inflammation of the uvea, the eye’s middle layer containing blood vessels. Infections, autoimmune disorders, or exposure to certain toxins can cause this condition. Symptoms include eye pain, redness, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light. Treatment for uveitis typically involves corticosteroid eye drops or oral medications; in some cases, immunosuppressive drugs may be required.

Eye Pain Wrapped Up

Eye pain can be caused by various factors, ranging from temporary irritants to more severe eye conditions. If you are experiencing persistent eye pain, it is essential to consult with an eye specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment. By understanding the most common causes of eye pain, you can take the necessary precautions to maintain good eye health and prevent further complications.

If you are looking for an eye specialist in Bend, OR, you do not have to look far because Lifetime Vision Care has you covered. We provide top-notch eye and vision care services, so schedule a consultation now!