Eye pain

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Ophthalmalgia; Pain - eye

If the problem is eye strain, rest should relieve the discomfort. If you think your eye pain is due to wearing contact lenses, avoid wearing the lenses for a few days and see if the pain goes away. If the pain is severe, call your doctor.

• there is pain, redness, swelling, discharge, or pressure in the eye(s) that persists -- particularly if it affects vision
• the pain is severe (call immediately) or if it continues for more than 2 days
• the eye pain is not associated with a viral illness or eyestrain
• the pain is associated with medical problems such as a history of herpes infections or a new rash
• you have an immune-system deficiency
• you have had recent surgery

Your doctor will check your vision, eye movements, and the back of the eye with an ophthalmoscope. If there is major concern, you should see an ophthalmologist (a doctor who specializes in eye problems).

To better understand the source of the pain, your doctor may ask:

• Are both eyes involved?
• Is the pain in the eye or around the eye?
• Does it feel like something is in your eye?
• Does your eye burn or throb?
• Did the pain begin suddenly?
• Is the pain worse when you move your eyes?
• What other symptoms do you have?

The following diagnostic tests may be performed:

• A slit-lamp examination
• If glaucoma is suspected, eye pressure will be checked.

Review Date: 11/14/2005
Reviewed By: Edward B. Feinberg, MD, MPH, Professor and Chair, Department of Ophthalmology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.