How to relieve a headache behind the eyes
You're working on a big project, and BAM! You suddenly develop a headache behind your eyes, making it tough to concentrate. Even if the pain isn't severe, it sure is distracting. Pain behind the eyes has several potential causes, including sinus pressure, muscle tension, migraines, and cluster headaches. Learn how to get rid of a headache behind the eyes fast.
Understanding headaches behind the eyes
A headache behind the eye has several common causes. Once you identify the cause of your headache, you can start treating it and get back to your normal life.
Common causes
Sinus issues, muscle tension, and eyestrain are among the most common causes of headaches behind the eyes. Since you have sinuses behind your forehead, sinus infections are a major culprit.
If you tend to slouch, the muscles in your neck and at the base of your head can tighten up, causing discomfort behind the eyes. You may also experience this type of headache if you sleep in an awkward position.
Eyestrain occurs when your eyes become fatigued from overuse. Driving for several hours at a time, staring at a tablet all evening, and working at your computer all day long are common causes of eyestrain.
You may even develop headaches if your home or office has LED lights. Although LED lights have less of an environmental impact than traditional light bulbs, they can trigger migraines in some individuals.
Difference between left and right eye headaches
It's possible to develop a headache behind the left eye without developing a headache behind the right eye. For example, a migraine may cause one-sided pain instead of affecting both eyes equally. If you work in a laboratory, it's also possible to develop eyestrain in just one eye due to the regular use of microscopes.
Quick relief techniques
If you regularly experience this type of pain, you need to know how to get rid of a headache behind the eyes fast.
Immediate home remedies
Ice isn't just good for freshening up a cocktail or making snow cones. You can also use it to relieve the pain caused by a headache behind the eyes. Cold compresses have a numbing effect, making headache pain more tolerable.
If you have a headache due to knotted muscles, try some relaxation techniques. Roll your shoulders, rotate your head, or press your fingertips at the base of your skull.
Proper eye care practices
Ice isn't just good for freshening up a cocktail or making snow cones. You can also use it to relieve the pain caused by a headache behind the eyes. Cold compresses have a numbing effect, making headache pain more tolerable.
If you have a headache due to knotted muscles, try some relaxation techniques. Roll your shoulders, rotate your head, or press your fingertips at the base of your skull.
Role of blue light blocking contacts
You may also find it helpful to wear contact lenses designed to block blue light, which is the light with the highest amount of energy.
Benefits of blue light blocking contacts
Acuvue Oasys Transitions and other blue light blocking lenses reduce exposure to blue light, giving your eyes a much-needed break. Blue light is what gives computers, tablets, and smartphones their eerie glow.
How to choose the right contacts
When choosing contacts, think about your budget, lifestyle, and the type of vision correction you need. For example, an active person who plays rugby probably doesn't need the same lenses as someone who spends most of their time reading.
With so many options on the market, it's possible to find a pair of contacts that corrects your vision, prevents eyestrain, and helps you avoid annoying headaches behind the eyes.
When to seek medical help
Occasionally, headaches behind the eyes are a sign of a serious condition, such as optic neuritis or Graves' disease (AKA thyroid eye disease). Without treatment, these conditions can get much worse, so it's important to seek care from a qualified health care professional.
Consulting health care professionals
Everyone gets a headache at some point in their life, but you should seek professional advice if your headaches are frequent or severe or if they disrupt your normal routine.
Prevent headaches with regular eye care
Blue light blocking contacts can help prevent headaches associated with eyestrain. If your headaches persist, schedule an appointment with an eye care professional.
Frequently asked questions
Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about headaches behind the eyes.
What are the fastest ways to relieve a headache behind the eyes?
One of the fastest ways to relieve a headache behind the eyes is to put an ice pack on the affected area to dull the pain.
Can headaches behind the eyes be a sign of something serious?
Yes. In some people, headaches behind the eyes may signal the presence of thyroid eye disease or optic neuritis.
How effective are blue light blocking glasses or contacts in preventing eyestrain-related headaches?
Blue light blocking glasses and contacts are highly effective at preventing headaches related to eyestrain, as they block a significant amount of blue light from electronic devices.