- By Iram Hussain
- Thu, 26 Dec 2024 05:53 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Headaches are a common complaint among people of all ages and their causes can range from stress to underlying medical conditions. One often overlooked reason for headaches is eye-related issues. Understanding when a headache may be linked to an eye problem is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.
In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr Neeraj Sanduja, MBBS, MS, Ophthalmologist, and Eye Surgeon, Viaan Eye and Retina Centre explained the link between a headache and an eye problem.
Understanding The Link Between Headaches And Eye Problems
The eyes are complex organs that work tirelessly throughout the day. When they are strained or affected by underlying conditions, the resulting discomfort can manifest as headaches. These headaches are often referred to as ocular headaches and can have specific characteristics that differentiate them from other types.
Common Eye-Related Causes of Headaches
Eye Strain (Asthenopia)- Prolonged activities like reading, using digital screens, or driving can strain the eye muscles. This strain often leads to a dull ache around the eyes or temples.
Uncorrected Vision Problems- Conditions such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), or astigmatism can cause the eyes to work harder to focus. This extra effort may result in headaches, especially after activities that require sustained focus.
Incorrect or Outdated Prescription Glasses- Wearing glasses or contact lenses with an incorrect prescription can strain the eyes, leading to headaches. Regular eye checkups are crucial to ensure your prescription is up to date.
Computer Vision Syndrome (Digital Eye Strain)- Spending long hours in front of screens without adequate breaks can cause headaches due to digital eye strain. Symptoms may also include dry eyes, blurred vision, and neck pain.
Glaucoma- This condition increases intraocular pressure and can cause intense headaches, often around the eyes. Headaches due to glaucoma may be accompanied by symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or halos around lights.
Eye Muscle Imbalance- Misalignment of the eyes, even if minor, can lead to strain as the muscles work harder to maintain focus. This condition, known as binocular vision dysfunction, can cause frequent headaches.
Inflammatory Eye Conditions- Conditions like uveitis or optic neuritis (inflammation of the optic nerve) may cause severe headaches along with other symptoms such as vision changes or eye redness.
When To Seek Help?
If you experience headaches frequently and suspect they might be related to your eyes, it’s important to consult an ophthalmologist. Consider seeking medical attention if:
- The headache is persistent or worsening.
- The headache is accompanied by blurry vision, eye pain or redness.
- There are additional symptoms such as nausea, sensitivity to light, or difficulty focusing.
- You haven’t had a comprehensive eye examination in over a year.