Headache around the eyes: what to know

Blocked or inflamed nasal passages can create pressure near the eyes, as described with Allergic Rhinitis, Chronic Sinusitis, or a Common Cold. Long screen sessions, glare, an outdated prescription, dry eyes, or poor focus may cause aching and tired eyes. Migraine can cause throbbing pain with nausea or sensitivity to light, even without visual symptoms. COVID-19 can include headache alongside respiratory or general illness symptoms. Pain with a red eye, reduced vision, halos, or marked light sensitivity may signal an eye problem rather than a routine headache.

Pause close-up work, use comfortable lighting, blink regularly, and follow your prescribed lens or contact-lens advice. Rest in a quiet room and drink fluids. A cool compress over closed eyes may feel soothing. Avoid rubbing the eyes and do not use another person’s eye drops. Record screen exposure, nasal symptoms, nausea, light sensitivity, vision changes, and which medicines help. A pharmacist can check whether an over-the-counter pain medicine is suitable for you.

Get emergency care for sudden intense eye or head pain, loss or marked change of vision, a red painful eye, unequal pupils, weakness, confusion, difficulty speaking, seizure, fever with a stiff neck, or repeated vomiting. Seek prompt review when pain follows an eye injury, contact-lens use, or continues despite rest. A clinician may need to examine vision, eye movement, the eye surface, and neurological signs.

Could my prescription, sinus symptoms, migraine pattern, or eye surface be contributing? Should I have a formal eye examination?