High Eye Pressure and Headaches: Neurological Symptoms

Elevated intraocular pressure sensation + headache?

Since last week, I have suddenly been experiencing frequent dizziness and headaches.
When I close my eyes while sleeping, I feel a slight swelling in my eyes, and there are also some bloodshot areas.
Over the past few days, the dizziness has increased, but the swelling sensation has decreased.
I have about 500 degrees of myopia.
After taking a shower and not wearing my glasses, I find it a bit difficult to fully open my eyes, and when I do, it feels slightly sore.
I experience dizziness primarily when sitting, especially in the area between my eyebrows, but not when standing or lying down.
I'm uncertain whether this is related to an eye condition or migraines.
I would like to inquire about this.
Thank you.
PS: I don't usually feel this way in the morning, but it gets worse as the day goes on (could it be due to excessive use of electronic devices? However, I haven't experienced this in the past).

Mr. Li, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/01/18

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello, based on your description, the common cause of forehead swelling is cervical myofascial pain.
Prolonged periods of looking down can lead to overuse of the trapezius muscle in the neck, resulting in neck and shoulder discomfort.
Initially, resting may alleviate the pain, but eventually, it can worsen and affect daily activities.
I recommend the following:
1.
Change positions: Alter your posture every 15 minutes to allow the neck tissues to rest.
Maintaining any posture (including a normal one) for an extended period can lead to tissue fatigue and inflammation, so moving around briefly can reduce the risk of muscle inflammation.
2.
Rest: Rest is essential to allow the muscles to utilize their self-repair capabilities.
During this time, avoid vigorous exercise.
3.
Neck heat therapy: Apply a warm compress for 15 to 20 minutes, ensuring the temperature is safe to avoid burns.
4.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): If you do not have a history of gastric ulcers, allergies to NSAIDs, or impaired kidney function, you may consider using NSAIDs to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain when necessary.
5.
Neck muscle stretching exercises: After the acute pain phase, develop a habit of performing slow and gentle neck stretches every 15 to 20 minutes, ensuring the angles do not cause discomfort.

I suggest consulting a neurologist or a rehabilitation physician for further evaluation and treatment.
Wishing you good health and peace.

Reply Date: 2018/01/18

More Info

High eye pressure and headaches can be concerning symptoms, especially when they occur frequently and are accompanied by other sensations like eye discomfort and dizziness. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a combination of symptoms that could be related to several underlying issues, including potential eye problems, neurological concerns, or even lifestyle factors.

Firstly, high eye pressure, also known as intraocular pressure (IOP), can lead to conditions like glaucoma, which can cause headaches and visual disturbances. However, you mentioned that your eye pressure has been checked and found to be normal, which is a good sign. It's important to continue monitoring your eye health, especially if you experience symptoms like blurred vision or eye pain.

The sensation of your eyes feeling swollen or having bloodshot appearances could be related to several factors, including fatigue, prolonged screen time, or even allergies. Given that you mentioned an increase in dizziness and headaches, it’s crucial to consider whether these symptoms might be related to tension headaches or migraines. Migraines can often present with visual disturbances, sensitivity to light, and nausea, which may explain your symptoms of discomfort when using screens or bright lights.

Your mention of feeling more dizzy as the day progresses could suggest a few possibilities. One common cause of dizziness is dehydration or low blood sugar, especially if you are not eating regularly or drinking enough fluids. Additionally, if you are spending extended periods on digital devices, this could lead to digital eye strain, which can cause discomfort, headaches, and even dizziness.

Another aspect to consider is the posture you maintain while using your devices. Poor posture can lead to tension in the neck and shoulders, which can contribute to headaches and dizziness. Ensuring that you maintain a good ergonomic position while using screens can help alleviate some of these symptoms.

Given your symptoms, it would be wise to consult with both an ophthalmologist and a neurologist. An ophthalmologist can perform a thorough examination of your eyes to rule out any underlying conditions that could be causing your symptoms. A neurologist can assess whether there are any neurological issues contributing to your headaches and dizziness. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, to rule out any serious conditions, especially since you have a history of head trauma from childhood.

In the meantime, consider implementing some lifestyle changes that may help alleviate your symptoms. These include:
1. Regular Breaks: Follow the 20-20-20 rule when using screens: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds to reduce eye strain.

2. Hydration: Ensure you are drinking enough water throughout the day to stay hydrated.

3. Healthy Diet: Eating regular, balanced meals can help maintain your blood sugar levels, which may reduce dizziness.

4. Posture: Pay attention to your posture while sitting and using devices. Ensure your screen is at eye level and take breaks to stretch your neck and shoulders.

5. Sleep Hygiene: Ensure you are getting adequate sleep and maintaining a regular sleep schedule, as poor sleep can exacerbate headaches and dizziness.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may not point to a single diagnosis, they warrant further investigation to ensure that any underlying issues are addressed. Consulting with healthcare professionals will provide you with a clearer understanding of your condition and appropriate treatment options.

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