Causes of a Headache Behind the Eyes
A headache behind the eyes is a widespread complaint and can be caused by several health conditions. A migraine or eye strain can trigger this pain. A headache behind the eyes may occur on one side of the head or both sides. It is often associated with other types of discomfort, such as light sensitivity. A visit to an eye ophthalmologist can help diagnose the underlying cause and find the best treatment.
Sinus pressure
A sinus headache can cause pain around the eyes and behind the nose. Because sinuses share a standard lining with the nose, an infection in one part of the sinuses can quickly spread to the other part of the head. The pain can be felt anywhere in the sinus area, with the most common spots being behind the eyes, the forehead, and the cheeks. The pain may also radiate to the teeth or the back of the head. Several treatments are available for sinus pain, but it is best to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
Colds
Colds can cause headaches in many cases. A cold usually include sneezing, coughing, congestion, fatigue, and sometimes even a headache. Headaches from colds are not uncommon and can interfere with a person's daily activities and routine. If you are experiencing a headache behind your eyes, consult a primary care physician to get a proper diagnosis. They will consider the location of the pain, triggers, and symptoms to determine the cause of your headache. The pain behind your eyes may be caused by a cluster headache, tension headache, or sinus headache.
Allergies
If you've ever experienced a headache behind your eyes, you know how painful and frustrating it can be. These pains usually happen when your sinuses are inflamed. Sinuses are the hollow air spaces behind your eyes. These symptoms are a sign that you may have allergies.
Grave's disease
A headache behind the eyes is a common sign of Grave's disease, an autoimmune eye disease associated with the thyroid gland. It may be accompanied by red or pink eye, blurred vision, and light sensitivity. People with Grave's disease may also experience limited eye mobility and double vision.
Optic neuritis
Optic neuritis is a type of eye disease that affects the optic nerve behind the eye. It can affect both adults and children. Its exact cause is unknown, but some researchers suggest that a viral infection could trigger an attack on the optic nerve. Once the optic nerve is inflamed, it will lead to a loss of vision. The loss of vision typically reaches its peak effect within a few days and then begins to improve.
Tension in the neck
There are several treatment options for headaches behind the eyes. There are lifestyle and home remedies that may help to alleviate the pain, and there are medications available over the counter or by prescription. Many over-the-counter pain relievers can relieve the pain quickly, but prescription medications are recommended if you are experiencing frequent headaches. You may need to try a few different medications before you find one that works for you.
Migraines
A variety of conditions can cause migraines behind the eyes. In addition to the obvious physical symptoms, the pain may also be associated with redness, tearing, and swelling around the eye. In addition, there are various triggers for migraines, such as smoking, dehydration, and stress.
