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Eye Pain

  • Created in Eye Symptoms

Eye pain is not normal and should always be checked by your eye care professional. It is especially urgent if the pain comes with any of the following symptoms:

  • The pain is intense and sudden.
  • Your eye is injured or is being irritated by a foreign object.
  • The pain comes with sensitivity to light or blurry vision.
  • You have a history of glaucoma.
  • The pain is accompanied by redness and discharge.
  • You recently underwent any type of eye surgery.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Pain

The location of the eye pain is a prime indicator of what the trouble might be. For instance, pain that feels like it is coming from within the eye or from the surface of the eye (the cornea), could indicate the following problems:

  • A foreign object stuck in the eye. Sand, wood slivers, metal shavings, glass, sand, and many types of liquids can irritate the extremely sensitive cornea.
  • Corneal abrasions. These occur when the surface of the eye is scratched. While minor abrasions can heal on their own, many lead to infection without proper treatment.
  • Dry eyes. While not usually a medical emergency, if your eyes are not tearing enough for proper lubrication of the cornea, this can lead to corneal abrasions.
  • Conjunctivitis or “pink eye.” This infection and swelling of the eyelid membrane can be very contagious.
  • Bacterial or fungal eye infections such as Acanthamoeba keratitis.
  • Inflammation of the iris, called “Iritis.”
  • Poor contact lens hygiene or poorly fitting lenses.

Any direct injury to the eye, such as being scratched by an animal, should be handled immediately by an eye care professional.

Eye pain coming from behind your eyes can often be attributed to either migraines or sinus pressure/infection. Although neither of these conditions are medical emergencies, they do need to be addressed, particularly if they are severe and recurring.

Pain emanating from around the eyes can signal any of the following:

  • A stye. This condition starts out resembling a pimple on your eyelid and can eventually cause the whole eyelid to swell.
  • Computer eye syndrome. Also called computer vision syndrome, this can be remedied by taking more rest breaks during work to refocus and relax your eyes, and setting up your workstation more ergonomically.
  • Optic neuropathy. This condition is very serious and can cause vision loss.

Contact your eye care provider immediately if you are experiencing eye pain. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can save your sight.

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Testimonials

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  • "I recently received a corneal abrasion and Dr. Sarah Barts has gone above and beyond to help relieve my pain and discomfort. I can't thank her enough other than to give her the word that she is an excellent eye doctor, and I will never see another. If you are in the Summerfield area looking for a new eye specialist I HIGHLY recommend this office. The staff is always super friendly, and always willing to answer any questions you have. I can honestly say, as long I live in the Triad Area I will not stray from them"
    Dacia Waters
  • "I visited Summerfield Family Eye Care on 2/25 for an 11am appointment. The staff was friendly and I received answers to questions quickly. Not only did I receive an appointment a lot more quickly than other locations, but the overall time in office was phenomenal (Waiting room time quick, and seen the OD almost instantly). I'd recommend to family and friends for sure."
    Adam Hicks
  • "They are wonderful. Both me and my almost 4 year old are patients and they make her feel so comfortable and at ease, which isn't always easy. Would highly highly recommend."
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