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The Possible Reasons There is Pain Behind Your Eye

Having eye pain is something just about everyone experiences. There are different types of eye pain, from pain in the front of the eye to pain on the sides or behind it. Here are some reasons to have pain behind your eye. 

Migraines or Headaches

A very common reason to have behind your eye is if you either have a migraine or a headache. Contrary to popular belief, these are not the same thing, but they both have the potential to cause this type of eye pain. Mild and moderate eye pain is often from traditional headaches, which may be from stress or strain. With migraines, it tends to cause more severe pain behind the eye, often being debilitating. Migraines can be defined by more severe pain, often becoming worse when being in a room with bright lights or loud noises. In either case, it is a good idea to talk to a doctor about the headaches and migraines, especially if it is a chronic issue.

Sinus Infections

You may also have a sinus infection which is causing the pain behind the eyes. This can occur with one or both eyes, and happen every time you have a sinus infection or only with the more serious ones. Many people suffer from chronic sinus infections and, therefore, experience some severe eye pain. With a sinus infection, the pain is often less severe than if you have a migraine. Other signs of sinus infections include pain in the back of your nose, nasal congestion and discharge, and an overwhelming ill feeling.

Eye Conditions

There are also some eye conditions that may cause pain solely in the back of the eye, or in the back as well as other areas of the eye. Due to these conditions, it is important that you see your optometrist regularly for an examination. They not only do the exam to check your vision but look for signs of eye conditions and diseases. For example, you may have pain in your eye from conditions like dry eyes, blepharitis, abrasions, or viral infections in the eyes. You may also have pain from glaucoma, optical neuritis, or a stye. It is not uncommon to experience pain in the back of the eye, that actually stems from the front, such as a cornea-related condition.

Anytime you have pain in the back of the eye, you should consult a local optometrist. They will decide if you need to see your eye doctor or not.


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