What Causes Eye Pain and Sensitivity to Light?

Eye pain and sensitivity to light are common complaints that can affect anyone. These symptoms may range from mild discomfort to severe pain, and they often indicate underlying eye or health issues. In this article, we’ll explore the various causes of eye pain and sensitivity to light, and provide guidance on when to seek medical attention.
What is Eye Pain?
Eye pain can be categorized into two main types: ocular pain and orbital pain. Ocular pain originates from the surface of the eye, such as the cornea or conjunctiva, while orbital pain is felt deeper within the eye socket or behind the eye. In many cases, eye pain is accompanied by other symptoms like redness, swelling, or blurred vision. Sensitivity to light, or photophobia, often occurs alongside eye pain, making it difficult for the individual to tolerate bright environments.
Common Causes of Eye Pain
There are several reasons why a person might experience eye pain, ranging from minor irritations to more serious conditions. Let’s look at some of the most common causes:
- Dry Eyes Dry eye syndrome is one of the leading causes of eye pain. When the eyes do not produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly, the surface of the eye can become irritated and inflamed. This condition often leads to a gritty or burning sensation and may also cause sensitivity to light.
- Eye Strain Spending extended periods of time staring at screens or focusing on small details can result in eye pain. This type of discomfort, known as eye strain, is common in people who work long hours at computers or engage in activities that require prolonged visual concentration. Eye strain can cause tired, achy eyes and increased sensitivity to light.
- Infections Infections like conjunctivitis (pink eye) or keratitis (corneal infection) can cause significant eye pain. Conjunctivitis often results in redness, itching, and discharge, while keratitis may cause intense pain and sensitivity to light. Bacterial or viral infections need prompt treatment to avoid complications.
- Corneal Abrasions A scratch or injury to the cornea, known as a corneal abrasion, is a common cause of eye pain. This type of injury typically causes sharp, intense pain and can make the eye highly sensitive to light. Corneal abrasions often occur after trauma to the eye, such as rubbing the eye with a foreign object or wearing contact lenses improperly.
- Glaucoma Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can cause eye pain and light sensitivity due to increased pressure inside the eye. Acute angle-closure glaucoma, a specific form of the disease, is an emergency that requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms of glaucoma may also include headaches, blurred vision, and halos around lights.
- Uveitis Uveitis refers to inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye, and can lead to severe eye pain. It may also cause redness, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light. Uveitis is often associated with autoimmune diseases, infections, or trauma, and requires prompt medical intervention to prevent permanent damage to the eye.
- Cluster Headaches Cluster headaches are intense, recurring headaches that typically affect one side of the head and are often accompanied by eye pain. These headaches can cause sensitivity to light, tearing, and redness in the affected eye. While the exact cause of cluster headaches is unknown, they are thought to be related to nerve activity in the brain.
- Iritis Iritis is the inflammation of the iris, the colored part of the eye, and is another potential cause of eye pain. This condition often results in deep, throbbing pain, especially when exposed to bright light. Iritis is usually treated with anti-inflammatory medications to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
- Optic Neuritis Optic neuritis is the inflammation of the optic nerve, which transmits visual information from the eye to the brain. This condition can cause severe eye pain, especially when moving the eye. It is also often associated with sudden vision loss and sensitivity to light. Optic neuritis may be linked to multiple sclerosis or other neurological conditions.
Why Does Light Sensitivity Occur?
Light sensitivity, or photophobia, often accompanies eye pain and can make everyday activities like going outside or sitting in a bright room uncomfortable. This occurs because the inflamed or damaged tissues in the eye are more reactive to light. In some cases, underlying neurological conditions, such as migraines or optic neuritis, may also trigger photophobia without direct damage to the eye itself.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While mild eye pain and sensitivity to light may resolve on their own with rest and proper care, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. You should consult an eye doctor if you experience any of the following:
- Sudden, severe eye pain
- Vision loss or significant changes in vision
- Pain that persists for more than a few days
- Eye injury or trauma
- Intense redness or swelling
Timely treatment is crucial, especially for conditions like glaucoma, uveitis, or optic neuritis, as these can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated.
Conclusion
Understanding the causes of eye pain and sensitivity to light can help you recognize when it’s time to seek professional care. Whether it’s dry eyes, an infection, or a more serious condition like glaucoma, addressing the problem early can prevent complications and preserve your vision. If you experience persistent eye pain or find that bright lights are becoming increasingly uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.