Eye Pain During Yawning: Causes and Solutions

Q: Eye Pain During Yawning: Causes and Solutions

Hello Sophia： When yawning, the muscles in the cheeks, tongue, and throat contract, leading to an increase in pressure in the oral and nasal cavities. <br>The elevated pressure in the nasal cavity can temporarily obstruct the drainage of tears through the nasolacrimal duct, resul

Eye stinging?

Hello Doctor: I experience a sharp pain in my eyes (around the center of the eyeball, without any redness or swelling) when I yawn.
Initially, I thought it was due to dry eyes, so I used some artificial tears.
However, I later realized that just the act of yawning causes the sharp pain in my eyes even before tears are produced.
Could you please advise me on what my symptoms might indicate?

sophia, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/21

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello Sophia: When yawning, the muscles in the cheeks, tongue, and throat contract, leading to an increase in pressure in the oral and nasal cavities.
The elevated pressure in the nasal cavity can temporarily obstruct the drainage of tears through the nasolacrimal duct, resulting in tearing.
This series of actions may increase the pressure in the muscles around the eyes, causing discomfort, but it should not be a cause for concern.
Information found online should only be used as a reference; if necessary, it is important to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2021/07/21

More Info

Eye pain during yawning can be a perplexing and uncomfortable experience. The sensation of sharp pain in the middle of the eye, particularly when yawning, can be attributed to several potential causes. Understanding these causes can help in addressing the issue effectively.

Possible Causes of Eye Pain During Yawning
1. Dry Eyes: One of the most common reasons for eye discomfort is dryness. When you yawn, the muscles around your eyes contract, which can lead to a temporary change in the tear film covering your eyes. If your eyes are already dry, this contraction can cause a sharp pain or discomfort.

2. Eye Strain: Prolonged periods of focusing on screens or reading can lead to eye strain. This strain can make your eyes more sensitive to movements such as yawning, which involves a sudden change in eye position and muscle tension.

3. Sinus Pressure: The sinuses are located near the eyes, and any pressure or inflammation in the sinus cavities can lead to referred pain in the eyes. Yawning can increase this pressure, leading to discomfort.

4. Nerve Sensitivity: The trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for sensation in the face, including the eyes, can become sensitive due to various factors, including stress or fatigue. Yawning may trigger this sensitivity, resulting in pain.

5. Muscle Tension: Yawning involves the contraction of various facial muscles, including those around the eyes. If these muscles are tense or fatigued, yawning can exacerbate the discomfort.

Solutions and Recommendations
1. Stay Hydrated: Ensure that you are drinking enough water throughout the day. Hydration can help maintain the moisture levels in your eyes, reducing dryness.

2. Use Artificial Tears: If you suspect dryness is the issue, using preservative-free artificial tears can provide relief. These drops can help lubricate the eyes and alleviate discomfort.

3. Take Breaks from Screens: If you spend long hours in front of a computer or other screens, practice the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This can help reduce eye strain.

4. Warm Compresses: Applying a warm compress over your closed eyes can help relax the muscles around your eyes and improve circulation, potentially alleviating discomfort.

5. Consult an Eye Specialist: If the pain persists or worsens, it is essential to consult an eye care professional. They can conduct a thorough examination to rule out any underlying conditions, such as dry eye syndrome, sinus issues, or other ocular problems.

6. Manage Stress: Stress can contribute to muscle tension and nerve sensitivity. Incorporating relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, can help reduce overall tension.

Conclusion
Experiencing eye pain during yawning can be unsettling, but understanding the potential causes can guide you toward effective solutions. Maintaining eye health through proper hydration, regular breaks from screens, and using lubricating eye drops can significantly alleviate discomfort. However, if symptoms persist, seeking professional medical advice is crucial to ensure there are no underlying health issues. Taking proactive steps to care for your eyes will not only help in managing pain but also contribute to overall eye health in the long run.

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