Discomfort in the Left Eye and Associated Dizziness - Ophthalmology

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Discomfort in the left eye and dizziness?


Since childhood, I have occasionally experienced discomfort in my left eye, specifically in the area above the eyeball (around the eyelid).
It is neither painful nor sore, and I find it difficult to describe, but it is simply uncomfortable.
Each episode starts with mild discomfort that gradually intensifies, and during severe episodes, I also experience dizziness and nausea, along with discomfort in my left temple.
Whenever this occurs, I tend to sleep for about three hours, after which I feel better.
Sometimes, prolonged use of electronic devices triggers these episodes, but at other times, they occur without any specific activity.
I have tried covering my left eye while keeping my right eye open to continue working for about three to four hours, and during that time, the discomfort did not worsen; instead, it gradually improved.
I previously visited an ophthalmology clinic, and the doctor, after listening to my description, concluded that it was not an eye issue.
Could this possibly be related to elevated intraocular pressure in my left eye? If I need to go to a hospital for an examination, which department should I consult? I apologize for not knowing which specialty to ask, so I ended up going to ophthalmology.

chloe, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/19

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology


Hello Chloe: High intraocular pressure can present similar symptoms, but it is mostly related to neuralgia or muscle strain in the eye, which can also occur from excessive use of electronic devices.
If you suspect high intraocular pressure, it is important to measure it during an episode to confirm whether it is indeed elevated.
Next time you experience such symptoms, please promptly visit an ophthalmologist to check your intraocular pressure.
Online responses should only be considered as references; it is essential to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility when necessary.
I hope to have the opportunity to assist you.
Gao Pi-Lin

Reply Date: 2021/06/19

More Info


Understanding discomfort in the left eye accompanied by dizziness can be quite complex, as it may involve various underlying conditions. Based on your description, it seems that the discomfort in your left eye, which intensifies and is associated with dizziness and nausea, could be linked to several potential causes.

Firstly, it’s important to consider that the symptoms you are experiencing may not solely be related to the eye itself. The discomfort you feel in the upper part of your left eye could be a manifestation of tension or strain, particularly if you spend extended periods using digital devices. This condition is often referred to as digital eye strain or computer vision syndrome, which can lead to symptoms such as eye discomfort, headaches, and even dizziness. The fact that your symptoms improve after resting suggests that fatigue may play a significant role.

Moreover, the association of your eye discomfort with headaches, particularly around the temple area, raises the possibility of tension-type headaches or migraines. Migraines can present with visual disturbances and may cause discomfort in one eye, along with accompanying symptoms such as nausea and dizziness. The fact that covering one eye seems to alleviate the discomfort could indicate that your brain is compensating for the strain on the affected eye, thus providing temporary relief.

Another consideration is the possibility of ocular hypertension, which is an increase in pressure within the eye. While this condition can lead to glaucoma if left untreated, it typically does not present with the symptoms you describe, such as dizziness and nausea. However, it is still advisable to have your intraocular pressure checked, especially if you have a family history of eye diseases.

Given the complexity of your symptoms, it would be prudent to consult with a healthcare professional. Since you have already seen an ophthalmologist who did not find any ocular issues, it may be beneficial to explore other specialties. A neurologist could be a suitable choice, as they can evaluate for any neurological conditions that may be contributing to your symptoms. They can assess for migraines, tension headaches, or other neurological disorders that might explain the combination of eye discomfort and dizziness.

In addition, if your symptoms are frequent and disruptive, you might consider keeping a symptom diary. Documenting when the discomfort occurs, its duration, any associated activities (like prolonged screen time), and other symptoms can provide valuable information to your healthcare provider.

In summary, while your symptoms may not directly indicate high eye pressure, they warrant further investigation. Consulting a neurologist may provide insights into potential migraine or tension headache issues. Additionally, maintaining good eye health practices, such as taking regular breaks from screens and ensuring proper lighting while working, can help alleviate some discomfort. If your symptoms persist or worsen, seeking further evaluation is essential to rule out any serious underlying conditions.

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