Eye Pressure and Headaches: Causes and Concerns - Family Medicine

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Hello Doctor: Yesterday, I experienced a sensation of pressure in my right eye (it felt like something was pressing on my eyeball) for about two hours.
I have had similar sensations before, but they only lasted one or two seconds.
Additionally, I had a headache on the right side and felt nauseous.
What could be the cause? I have had an eye examination, and everything was normal, except for slightly dry eyes.

yiwen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/06/11

Dr. Chen Bozhang reply Family Medicine


Hello: The letter mentions a continuous sensation of pressure in the right eye lasting for two hours, accompanied by right-sided headache and nausea.
This could potentially be a case of unilateral migraine, cluster headache, or trigeminal neuralgia.
Since you have already undergone an ophthalmological examination, if the episodes occur frequently or cause significant disruption to your daily life, it is advisable to visit a hospital and consult a neurologist for a detailed differential diagnosis.

Reply Date: 2012/06/11

More Info


Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding eye pressure and headaches. Based on your description, it sounds like you are experiencing a combination of symptoms that could be related to several underlying issues.
Firstly, the sensation of pressure in your right eye, accompanied by headache and nausea, can be indicative of a few different conditions. While you mentioned that previous examinations showed normal eye pressure and only dryness, it’s important to consider that symptoms can sometimes arise even when tests do not show abnormalities.
One potential cause of your symptoms could be related to tension headaches or migraines. Migraines can often present with visual disturbances, pressure sensations in the eyes, and associated nausea. The fact that your symptoms have lasted for a couple of hours and are accompanied by a headache suggests that this could be a possibility. Migraines can be triggered by various factors including stress, lack of sleep, dehydration, or even certain foods.
Another consideration is the possibility of ocular migraines, which can cause temporary visual disturbances and discomfort in the eye, along with headache. These types of migraines can occur without the typical headache phase and may lead to sensations of pressure or discomfort in the eye.

Additionally, you mentioned that your eye feels dry. Dry eyes can lead to discomfort and a sensation of pressure, particularly if you are not adequately lubricating your eyes. This can sometimes be exacerbated by prolonged screen time or environmental factors. It’s essential to ensure that you are using artificial tears or lubricating eye drops as recommended by your eye care professional to alleviate dryness.

Given that you have experienced these symptoms multiple times, it may be beneficial to keep a symptom diary. Note when the symptoms occur, their duration, any potential triggers (like stress or lack of sleep), and how you manage them. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in determining the underlying cause.

If your symptoms persist or worsen, I would recommend consulting with a neurologist or an ophthalmologist who specializes in headaches. They can perform a thorough evaluation, including imaging studies if necessary, to rule out any serious conditions such as increased intracranial pressure or other neurological issues.

In the meantime, consider implementing some lifestyle changes that may help alleviate your symptoms. Ensure you are staying hydrated, getting adequate sleep, and managing stress through relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation. Taking regular breaks from screens and practicing good eye hygiene can also be beneficial.

In summary, while your symptoms may be related to tension headaches, migraines, or dry eye syndrome, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation. They can provide tailored advice and treatment options based on your specific situation. Take care, and I hope you find relief soon!

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