Headache over the eyes: what to know

A blocked or inflamed nose may create pressure across the forehead and around both eyes, especially with congestion, facial tenderness or reduced smell. Allergic rhinitis and a common cold can cause similar pressure; chronic sinusitis is more persistent. Migraine may cause throbbing pain, nausea, light sensitivity or visual symptoms, and it does not require a blocked nose. Long screen sessions, an outdated prescription or dry eyes can add aching around the brow. Heat, sweating, missed meals, poor sleep and too little fluid can also trigger headache. The location alone cannot identify the cause.

Rest in a quiet, dim room and take regular fluids. Eat if you have missed a meal, reduce screen glare, and take breaks that let your eyes focus at a distance. A cool cloth over the forehead may help. Saline nasal rinsing can ease congestion when used with safe, clean water. If you use an over-the-counter pain medicine, follow its label and check with a pharmacist if you have pregnancy, stomach, kidney, liver or bleeding concerns. Note when the pain begins, its severity, triggers, nasal symptoms, vision changes and medicines taken.

Seek urgent medical help for a sudden severe headache, new weakness, confusion, fainting, seizure, stiff neck with fever, or repeated vomiting. Get prompt eye assessment for severe eye pain, a red eye, a new loss of vision, double vision or a marked change in vision. Arrange a clinician review if the headache keeps returning, steadily worsens, follows a head injury, or does not improve with simple measures.

Could my nasal symptoms, vision, sleep, medicines or hydration be contributing? Do I need an eye examination or a headache diary? Which pain reliever is suitable for my health conditions, and how often should I use it?