Tension headache and eyes: what should you know?

A tension-type headache often feels like a steady, pressing band across the forehead, temples or back of the head. Tight muscles in the scalp, neck and jaw can make discomfort seem to spread toward the eyes. Long periods of screen use, glare, an awkward workstation, tiredness or difficulty focusing may add eye strain. These features can occur together without proving that the eyes are the source of the headache.

Blurred or double vision, a red or painful eye, marked light sensitivity, halos, loss of vision or pain that is sudden and intense is different from ordinary pressure. Migraine, an eye problem or another condition may need consideration.

Rest your eyes by looking away from nearby work regularly, reduce glare and adjust the screen so your neck and gaze stay comfortable. Drink water, eat regularly and try gentle shoulder, neck and jaw relaxation. A cool or warm compress may ease muscle discomfort. If you use pain medicine, follow the label and avoid taking it repeatedly for frequent headaches without medical advice.

Keep a brief record of when the headache starts, what you were doing, any visual change, and what relieves it. Arrange a GP assessment if headaches recur, interfere with work, or do not settle with simple measures.

Seek urgent care for sudden severe headache, new loss of vision, double vision, weakness, confusion, fainting, trouble speaking, fever with a stiff neck, or a painful red eye with nausea. Do not drive yourself if your vision is impaired. Contact a GP soon for a new pattern, persistent eye pain, repeated vomiting, or headaches that are becoming more frequent.

Ask whether the pattern fits a tension-type headache, whether your eyes and vision need checking, and which symptoms should trigger urgent review. Bring your symptom record and a list of medicines, including products taken for headache.