Headache behind or around one eye

Migraine may cause one-sided throbbing pain with nausea or sensitivity to light and sound. Some headache disorders cause intense pain around one eye with tearing, a blocked nostril or restlessness. Sinus or allergy symptoms can create pressure near the eye, while eye strain may follow prolonged focusing.

The same location can arise from different problems. Record which eye hurts, how quickly the pain began, how long episodes last, and whether the eye is red, watery, swollen or affected by vision changes.

Stop driving or screen work if vision feels altered. Rest in a quiet, dim space, drink fluids and avoid known triggers such as glare or strong smells. Do not borrow eye drops or use leftover prescription treatment. Arrange medical or eye assessment if this is a new pattern, keeps recurring or does not settle.

Seek emergency care for sudden vision loss, severe eye pain with a red eye, halos, a drooping eyelid, a new unequal pupil, double vision, weakness, confusion, seizure, or a sudden severe headache. Injury, chemical exposure or a contact-lens-related painful red eye also needs urgent attention.

Ask whether you need an eye examination, migraine assessment or another evaluation. Describe the episode timeline and tell the clinician about contact lenses, eye conditions, injuries, medicines, nausea, tearing and vision symptoms.