Headache in the eye socket

Migraine may cause one-sided pain around the eye with nausea or sensitivity to light. Nasal blockage, facial pressure and a recent cold can point towards inflammation near the sinuses. Long periods of reading, screen use or an uncorrected prescription may cause aching and tired eyes. Pain with a red eye, light sensitivity, swelling, discharge or blurred vision needs a different assessment because the eye itself may be involved.

Describe whether movement of the eye worsens pain, whether the eye looks different, and whether symptoms affect one or both eyes. Contact lens use, recent injury and new medicines are useful details for a clinician.

Pause close work, adjust screen brightness and rest in a dim room. A cool compress over closed eyelids may be soothing. Drink fluids and avoid rubbing the eye. If you use contact lenses, remove them if the eye is uncomfortable and use glasses until advice is obtained. A pharmacist can help you choose suitable pain relief; follow the label and avoid using someone else’s eye drops, especially drops containing antibiotics or steroids.

Seek emergency help for sudden vision loss, severe eye pain, a red or swollen eye with nausea, a new unequal pupil, double vision, weakness, confusion or a sudden severe headache. Get urgent assessment after an eye injury or chemical exposure. Arrange prompt medical review for persistent blurred vision, pain when moving the eye, recurrent episodes or headache that is becoming more frequent.

Does the eye need a focused examination or vision check? Could migraine or sinus inflammation explain the pattern? Which pain medicines and eye products are safe for me? What change in vision should prompt immediate help?