Eye Pain and Headache: Possible Causes and What You Should Know

Experiencing both eye pain and headache at the same time can be concerning. These symptoms may stem from eye-related conditions or issues affecting the head and nervous system. Understanding the potential causes can help you decide when to seek medical attention.

1. Glaucoma: A Serious Eye Condition

One of the most urgent causes of simultaneous eye and head pain is glaucoma. This condition typically causes a severe, throbbing pain in and around the eye, often described as a feeling of pressure or fullness. It may be accompanied by blurred vision, dilated pupils, nausea, and even vomiting. If you experience these symptoms, especially sudden vision changes and intense pain, it's crucial to visit an ophthalmologist immediately to check your intraocular pressure.

2. Migraine: A Common Neurological Cause

Another common cause is migraine, particularly ocular or retinal migraines. These often involve pulsating or throbbing pain around the eye area and can be accompanied by nausea, light sensitivity, and visual disturbances. Migraines tend to be episodic, meaning they come and go, and many people have a family history of these headaches. If you notice a pattern of recurring pain with similar symptoms, migraine might be the cause.

3. Brain-Related Conditions: Inflammation or Mass Lesions

What to Watch For

Eye pain combined with headache can also signal more serious neurological conditions such as brain tumors, infections, or inflammatory disorders. These typically involve a deep, persistent ache in or behind the eye and may worsen over time. To diagnose these conditions, a healthcare provider may order imaging tests like a CT scan or MRI to examine the brain and surrounding structures.

4. Painful Ophthalmoplegic Neuropathy (Eye Muscle Paralysis)

A less common but significant cause is painful ophthalmoplegic neuropathy, sometimes referred to as Tolosa-Hunt syndrome. This condition involves intense pain on one side of the head and eye, often accompanied by difficulty moving the eye and double vision. Prompt medical evaluation is necessary to rule out other dangerous causes and begin appropriate treatment.

When to Seek Medical Help

Because eye pain and headache can indicate a variety of conditions—ranging from relatively mild to life-threatening—it's important to consult with a medical professional. An ophthalmologist or neurologist can perform a thorough examination and, if needed, order diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing complications and ensuring a full recovery.