Eyes hurt, sensitive to light and headache: what should you know?

Bright light can worsen pain when the eyes are irritated or when the nervous system is processing a headache. Screen use, poor sleep, dehydration, heat, a viral illness, or congestion may contribute. Sinus pressure can cause pain around the eyes, while migraine may bring light sensitivity, nausea or a throbbing headache. Allergic rhinitis can add congestion and watery eyes. The symptoms alone cannot identify the cause.

Rest in a dim, quiet room and reduce screen glare. Drink fluids, eat if you have missed a meal, and use a cool cloth over closed eyes. Avoid rubbing your eyes and pause contact lens use until discomfort settles. Note when the pain began, whether it affects one or both eyes, and whether movement, fever, congestion or nausea occurs. A pharmacist or clinician can help you choose a suitable pain reliever if you normally can take one.

Seek urgent medical help for sudden severe headache, sudden vision change, a very red or swollen eye, severe eye pain, weakness, confusion, fainting, repeated vomiting, fever with a stiff neck, or pain after an eye injury. Arrange prompt assessment if light sensitivity is new and persistent, symptoms keep returning, or one eye becomes increasingly painful. Do not drive if vision is blurred.

Ask what is most likely causing the eye pain and light sensitivity, whether your vision and eye surface need checking, and which warning signs should change your plan. Mention medicines, contact lens use, recent illness, screen exposure, sleep, hydration and any pattern linked with congestion or heat.