Tension Between the Eyes: ENT Insights on Symptoms

Q: Tension Between the Eyes: ENT Insights on Symptoms

Hello Josephy： Your symptoms may be caused by chronic sinusitis of the frontal sinuses. <br>The purulent nasal discharge may also be causing post-nasal drip, leading to throat irritation and coughing. <br>It is recommended that you visit an otolaryngology clinic for an examinatio

Tightness in the area between the two eyes on the nose?

Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing a tightness between my eyes on the bridge of my nose, which sometimes extends down along the sides of my nose.
Additionally, when I lie flat, I can hear a sound similar to bubbles being squeezed out.
This condition has persisted for over a year.
Initially, the tightness would turn into a sharp pain upon waking at night.
Last year, before the Lunar New Year, I experienced photophobia that led to vomiting, prompting me to see an ophthalmologist.
I mentioned the "tightness" to the eye doctor, who prescribed a muscle relaxant for the eye muscles.
However, during my follow-up on March 26, when I again mentioned the "tightness" and the bubbling sound, the doctor suggested I see a neurologist, as I had previously thought the "bubbling sound" was related to the aqueous humor in my eyes, but the ophthalmologist clarified that such sounds are inaudible.

Recently, I have also been experiencing a dry cough, which sometimes leads to a feeling of nausea (and occasionally actual vomiting).
On March 13, I visited a pulmonologist for a chest X-ray (since I informed the doctor that I smoke), and the results were normal.
The doctor prescribed cough suppressants and expectorants, as my throat was inflamed from the dry cough that day.
After taking the medication for two days, my condition improved significantly.
However, I still experience a feeling of nausea after coughing, regardless of whether I smoke.
When the nausea becomes severe, I take "Anpan" to alleviate it (a sedative, as I have been on medication for panic and anxiety disorder for nearly ten years).
Otherwise, I might vomit until it reaches a peak.
Interestingly, after taking "Anpan," the "tightness" also seems to relieve.
Therefore, I would like to ask the doctor if the above symptoms are related to otolaryngology (ENT).

josephy, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/03/28

Dr. Xu Yingzhuo reply Otolaryngology

Hello Josephy: Your symptoms may be caused by chronic sinusitis of the frontal sinuses.
The purulent nasal discharge may also be causing post-nasal drip, leading to throat irritation and coughing.
It is recommended that you visit an otolaryngology clinic for an examination.
This message is from the Taitung Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare, with concern for your health.
Response provided by Dr.
Hsu Ying-shuo, Head of the Otolaryngology Department.

Reply Date: 2012/03/28

More Info

The symptoms you are experiencing, particularly the tension between your eyes and the associated sensations, can indeed be complex and multifactorial. Let's break down your concerns and explore the potential connections to ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) issues, as well as other relevant medical insights.

Understanding the Symptoms
1. Tension Between the Eyes: The feeling of tightness or tension in the area between your eyes, which sometimes extends along the sides of your nose, could be related to several factors. This area is rich in muscles and nerves, and tension can arise from muscle strain, stress, or even sinus issues. The muscles around the eyes, particularly the extraocular muscles, can become tense due to prolonged use, such as staring at screens or focusing intently on tasks. Additionally, sinusitis or nasal congestion can lead to referred pain or discomfort in the forehead and eye region.

2. Auditory Sensation of Bubbling: The sound you describe as "bubbling" when lying down could be related to Eustachian tube dysfunction or sinus pressure. The Eustachian tube connects the middle ear to the back of the nose and helps equalize pressure. If there is inflammation or blockage, it can create unusual sounds or sensations. This could also be exacerbated by sinus issues, which are common in individuals with nasal congestion or allergies.

3. Light Sensitivity and Nausea: The photophobia (light sensitivity) you experienced, which led to nausea, can be indicative of several conditions, including migraines or tension headaches. These headaches can be triggered by stress, eye strain, or sinus pressure, and they often present with symptoms like nausea and sensitivity to light.

4. Coughing and Nausea: The dry cough and subsequent nausea you mentioned could be linked to several factors, including post-nasal drip, which is common in sinusitis. When mucus drips down the back of the throat, it can trigger coughing and, in some cases, lead to nausea. The fact that your cough improved with medication suggests that there may have been an underlying respiratory issue that was addressed.

5. Anxiety and Medication Effects: Your history of anxiety and the use of medication like "安柏寧" (a tranquilizer) can also play a significant role in how you perceive and experience physical symptoms. Anxiety can amplify sensations of discomfort and tension, leading to a cycle of increased awareness of bodily sensations, which can exacerbate feelings of tension or pain.

ENT Connection
Given the symptoms you've described, there is a plausible connection to ENT issues. Conditions such as sinusitis, Eustachian tube dysfunction, or even allergies could contribute to the tension and auditory sensations you are experiencing. It would be advisable to consult an ENT specialist who can evaluate your nasal passages, sinuses, and Eustachian tubes to determine if there is an underlying condition that needs to be addressed.

Recommendations
1. Consult an ENT Specialist: Since your symptoms may be related to sinus or Eustachian tube issues, an ENT evaluation could provide valuable insights. They may perform imaging studies or endoscopic examinations to assess for any abnormalities.

2. Manage Stress and Anxiety: Since anxiety can exacerbate physical symptoms, consider discussing your anxiety management with a mental health professional. Techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, or relaxation exercises can be beneficial.

3. Eye Care: Continue to monitor your eye symptoms and ensure you are using appropriate eyewear. If eye strain persists, consider consulting an ophthalmologist for a comprehensive eye exam.

4. Hydration and Humidification: Keeping hydrated and using a humidifier can help alleviate dryness in your throat and nasal passages, potentially reducing coughing and discomfort.

5. Follow-Up on Cough: If your cough persists or worsens, follow up with your healthcare provider to rule out any underlying respiratory conditions.

In summary, your symptoms may indeed have connections to ENT issues, particularly regarding sinus and Eustachian tube function. A multidisciplinary approach involving both ENT and mental health professionals may provide the most comprehensive care for your situation.

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