Eye pain

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Pain in the eye (that is not due to injury) may be described as a burning, throbbing, aching, or stabbing sensation in or around the eye. It may also feel as if there is a foreign body in the eye.

Ophthalmalgia; Pain - eye

A feeling of tiredness in the eyes or some discomfort after a long period of work (eye strain) are generally minor problems and do not really qualify as eye pain. These problems may be due to an improper prescription for glasses or a muscle imbalance.

Pain in the eye, although not a common complaint, can be an important symptom that should be evaluated and treated if pain does not improve. It is important to try to describe the pain to your health care provider as much as possible.

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A wide variety of disorders can cause pain in or around the eye. In general, if the pain is persistent, severe, or associated with decreased vision, seek medical attention immediately.

Some of the problems that can cause eye pain are:

• Burns
• Conjunctivitis (pink eye) or any inflammation of the upper and lower lids
• Contact lens complications
• Eye problems (infection, irritation, or injury such as a corneal abrasion)
• Eye surgery
• Glaucoma
• Migraine headache
• Sinus problems
• Stye (hordeolum)
• Viral infections such as the flu

Review Date: 10/31/2009
Reviewed By: Linda Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).