Tension Around the Eye and Temple When Wearing Glasses or Headphones

Tension or discomfort when wearing glasses and headphones?

Hello Doctor, I have a problem that has been bothering me for a long time.
Whenever I wear glasses or earphones (in-ear type), I experience a strong tightness around my temples and eyes, but it only occurs on the right side.
The sensation in my eye feels like I can't move my eyeball to the right; whenever I try to look to the right, it feels stuck.
Could you please provide me with some answers? Thank you.

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/25

Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology

It may be necessary to have some examinations conducted by a physician in the outpatient setting to determine whether the impairment is due to psychological factors or a certain type of neurological reflex.

Reply Date: 2016/04/25

More Info

The symptoms you are experiencing, particularly the tension around your eye and temple when wearing glasses or headphones, could be indicative of several underlying issues. It is important to understand that discomfort in the eye area can stem from various causes, including muscle strain, pressure from eyewear, or even nerve-related issues.

Firstly, the tightness you feel around your temple and eye could be related to muscle tension. The muscles around the eyes, including the extraocular muscles responsible for eye movement, can become strained from prolonged use or improper alignment of your glasses. If your glasses are not fitted correctly, they may exert pressure on certain areas of your head, leading to discomfort. This is particularly true if you wear your glasses for extended periods or if they are too tight. Similarly, wearing headphones, especially in-ear types, can create pressure in the temporal region, leading to discomfort.
In addition to muscle strain, the sensation of not being able to move your eye freely to the right could suggest a possible issue with the extraocular muscles or the nerves that control them. Conditions such as strabismus (misalignment of the eyes) or cranial nerve palsies can lead to restricted eye movement and discomfort. If you notice that your eye movement is limited or if you experience double vision, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

Another potential cause of your symptoms could be related to tension headaches. Tension headaches often manifest as a feeling of tightness or pressure around the forehead, temples, or back of the head. They can be triggered by stress, poor posture, or prolonged use of screens and devices, which may also be exacerbated by wearing glasses or headphones. If you find that your symptoms improve with rest or when you remove your glasses or headphones, this could further support the idea of tension headaches.

Moreover, if you have a history of migraines or headaches, the symptoms you describe could be a form of a migraine variant, where the headache is accompanied by visual disturbances or tension in specific areas. Migraines can sometimes present with aura symptoms, which may include visual changes or sensations of pressure around the eyes.

To address your concerns, consider the following recommendations:
1. Check Your Eyewear: Ensure that your glasses are properly fitted. Visit an optician to have them adjusted if necessary. This can help alleviate any undue pressure on your temples and around your eyes.

2. Take Breaks: If you are using screens for long periods, take regular breaks to reduce eye strain. The 20-20-20 rule is helpful: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

3. Manage Stress: Engage in relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or gentle stretching to help reduce muscle tension.

4. Consult a Specialist: If your symptoms persist or worsen, it is advisable to consult with an ophthalmologist or a neurologist. They can perform a thorough examination to rule out any serious conditions and provide appropriate treatment options.

In conclusion, while the discomfort you are experiencing may be related to muscle strain or tension headaches, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If you notice any changes in your vision, persistent pain, or if the discomfort interferes with your daily activities, seeking medical advice is crucial for proper diagnosis and management.

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