Eye problems as a cause of headaches

The headache may be from the eyes. One usually gives less thought to this possible cause. Otherwise, headache is a common condition that affects up to 70% of Europeans and can be temporary or chronic. Most often, the cause is associated with tension or migraines, but in some cases the eyes can also be a factor in the development of headaches. The Professional Association of Ophthalmologists in Germany (BVA) recommends paying attention to the health of your eyes if you have a persistent headache.

When can a headache be related to the eyes?

Migraines, cluster and tension headaches are well known conditions. However, in some cases, headaches can be triggered by eye problems, such as inflammation of the eyelids, eye socket, or lacrimal system. A headache that feels worse behind the eyes can also be associated with inflamed sinuses. But for many patients it is difficult to pinpoint the pain – it can spread from the eyes to the temples or even manifest as a toothache, explains Dr. Kilian Kreator, practicing ophthalmologist and chairman of the BVA in Rhineland-Palatinate.

Eye strain and headache

Apart from inflammatory eye diseases, external factors can also cause eye-related headaches. For example, excessive strain from prolonged work at close range, improper lighting or improperly adjusted glasses can strain the visual system and lead to headaches. Untimely corrected ametropia (problems with the refraction of the eye) can also be a cause of discomfort. In such cases, it is important to ensure that you are using the correct glasses or lenses.

Dry eyes as a cause of headache

Dry eyes, known as Sikka syndrome, can also cause headaches. This condition leads to irritation of the cornea and conjunctiva due to insufficient lubrication of the tear film. In addition to the burning and itching sensation, some patients also report pain behind the eyes. With proper treatment with special eye drops prescribed by an ophthalmologist, the symptoms of dry eyes and associated headaches are significantly reduced.

High intraocular pressure and glaucoma

Headache can also be a symptom of glaucoma - a serious disease that leads to permanent damage to the optic nerve. In the early stages, glaucoma often goes unnoticed, but in some patients it manifests itself with increased intraocular pressure, which leads to headaches and eye pain. Only an ophthalmological examination can diagnose this condition and prevent more serious consequences for vision.

Double vision and headache

An imbalance in the eye muscles can lead to double vision, which in turn causes the patient to strain other muscles in an attempt to compensate for the problem. This type of excessive strain on the visual system can also be a cause of headaches. In such a case, an ophthalmological examination is necessary to accurately determine the cause of the symptoms and adequate treatment.

Eye examination for persistent headache

If you suffer from frequent headaches, especially those that do not respond to standard treatment methods, it is important to consider a visit to an ophthalmologist. An eye exam can help find out if vision problems or other eye conditions are at the root of your headaches. Specialists recommend regular preventive eye examinations, especially when unexplained headaches occur.

Author Iliana Angelova

Photo: Shutterstock