A headache behind the eyes is very upsetting. Not only is it hurtful, but it can also make you unable to work, focus or relax. Most people experience such pain, yet some people know what it is.
Is it stress? Eye strain? Something more serious?
The truth is, there are many possible reasons why this type of headache occurs. It can be sharp, dull, or throbbing. Besides, it can be on one side or both. The discomfort could be occasional or persist for a few hours.
The good news? Solutions exist. With proper treatment, you can get well quickly.
Let’s go over the reasons behind eye pain. How to handle them and what symptoms to look for. We will also assist you in determining when to consult a physician. Now, let us take a closer look at what is going on and what you can do to get relief.
What Is A Headache Behind Eyes?
Simply put, a headache behind the eyes is a dull discomfort that seems to be in or near your eyes. It can be stabbing, throbbing or pressure-like.
This type of headache is not well understood. Some think it’s just eye strain. Some get it confused with migraines or sinus pressure.
In reality, it may be a symptom of any one of a thousand conditions. It’s because of the eyes themselves.
Such pain might also affect your energy level, concentration and eye sight. It generally accompanies a few other symptoms, including watery eyes, stuffiness or nausea.
The initial thing to do in the healing process is to identify what is causing the pain. When a proper diagnosis is made then proper treatment follows, and relief is there pretty soon.
Common Reasons for Headaches Behind the Eyes
Here are a few reasons;
Sinus Infection and Sinusitis
Sinus infections may produce pressure-pain behind the eyes. When sinuses are inflamed or obstructed, they push against the surrounding tissues. The dull, throbbing pain is produced, which becomes worse if you lean forward or lie back.
Migraine Headaches
Migraines cause intense throbbing pain. The discomfort usually extends from behind and near the eyes to one side of the head. Migraines also cause nausea, sensitivity to light, or flashing lights in your eyes.
Cluster Headaches
Cluster headaches are piercing and agonizing. These occur on one side of the head and also tend to be accompanied by bloodshot or watery eyes. Cluster headaches occur in clusters, typically occurring at the same hour of the day or night.
Eye Strain and Digital Fatigue
Daylong screen staring? You might develop eye strain. It can bring in headaches that are pulsating and it seems as though they are positioned right behind the eyes. Its most common ones are bad lighting, uncomfortable eyewear, and computer overuse.
Tension Headaches
The most common are tension headaches. They are a ring of tightness encircling your head. They are brought on by tension, bad posture, or jaw clenching. Discomfort can spread from the upper part of the head or neck to the back of the eyes.
Glaucoma or Eye Conditions
Occasionally, the discomfort arises from the eyes themselves. Glaucoma, a sickness where pressure builds up in the eyes, may cause eyes to ache with a dull, deep pain. It may even impair your vision. If it gets worse or hurts a lot, you should always see an eye doctor.
Treatment for Headaches Behind the Eyes
Treatment varies according to why your headache behind the eyes is. Some need medical treatment. Others can be treated at home. Here’s how to recover fast.
Home Remedies
- To treat a sinus headache, apply a heated pad.
- Use cold packs to alleviate tension or migraine.
- Relax in a dim and quiet room.
- Use a humidifier as soon as the sleeping area is dry. Over-the-counter medications.
- Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can alleviate general pain
- Congestants will relieve sinus pressure.
- Artificial tears can calm dry eyes.
Prescription Treatment
- Triptans for migraines.
- Nasal steroids or antibiotics in sinusitis.
- Special medications for cluster headache, such as oxygen therapy.
- Prescription eye drops to manage glaucoma.
Lifestyle Adjustment
- Regular sleep.
- Decrease screen time.
- Relief from stress through breathing exercises or yoga
- Adjust your workspace ergonomically.
- Drink more water and eat proper meals.
A combination of herbal and medical drugs can perform miracles in therapy for pain. Always get medical advice if the pain persists.
When to See A Doctor
They tend to resolve on their own. However, in the event of very painful, frequent, or other symptoms, assistance is required. This is when to take action.
- If the headache started suddenly and it’s the worst you’ve ever experienced
- In case of vision loss or blurred vision
- If you are dizzy, bewildered, or nauseous
- And if your eyes are light-sensitive, swollen, or red
- Unless over-the-counter drugs fail
A doctor can assist you in determining the true cause of the problem.
How To Get Rid Of Headache Behind Eyes Fast
To get immediate relief
- Sleep in a quiet, comfy room
- Use a cold or a warm compress, depending on the type
- Take a pain reliever such as ibuprofen
- Eyedrops or decongestants, as needed
- Stay away from the screens at some point
Sometimes, a small change is everything.
Why Do I Have A Headache Behind My Eyes
There is no single cause. It may be eyestrain, stress, a sinus problem, or anything. Monitor your symptoms. In case the discomfort repeats, do not ignore it. You have a right to know and to be treated successfully.
Conclusion
A headache at the back of the eye can be painful, irritating, and even frightening. It could be due to stress, sinus pressure, or sitting at the computer, but the point is to identify the cause. From this point, treatments can include the likes of rest, medication or adjustment of lifestyles. The pain does not have to spoil your day. Consult a doctor in case it has worsened or persisted.