Can Dry Eyes Cause Pain Behind the Eye? What Seniors Should Know
According to the National Eye Institute, around 16.4 million Americans have dry eye, making it a common condition. It's even more likely that you have dry eye if you're an older adult, as seniors are more at risk.
Recently, you may have experienced pain behind the eyes, and you're wondering if dry eye syndrome could be the culprit. Can dry eyes cause pain behind the eye?
If so, then what can you do about it? And if not, what else can be at play? Read on for the key information that seniors in Tampa, FL should know.
Can Dry Eyes Cause Pain Behind the Eye?
Yes, dry eye syndrome can absolutely cause pain behind your eyes. Admittedly, it's not the most typical symptom, but it can still happen.
Dry eye syndrome usually causes a gritty, burning, or stinging sensation in front of your eye. But in some older adults, this discomfort can spread deeper, and as a result, you might get dull or aching pain behind the eye.
The symptoms of dry eye syndrome can happen due to:
- Chronic eye strain (squinting and frequent blinking)
- Inflammation
- Neurological sensitivity (stimulated trigeminal nerve)
What Else Can Cause Pain Behind the Eye?
If you have persistent or intense pain behind the eye, then it may not be dry eye syndrome. Here are some other possible culprits.
Sinus Infection (Sinusitis)
These infections can cause pressure and pain behind the eyes. This is especially true if you have:
- Nasal congestion
- Headaches
- Facial tenderness
If the pain worsens when you bend forward, then it's likely sinusitis causing pain behind the eye.
Eye Strain or Refractive Issues
Uncorrected vision problems can cause you to overuse your eye muscles. As a result, there's discomfort behind the eyes.
If you experience extended screen time or read without proper lenses, these things may also contribute to the pain.
Glaucoma
Chronic glaucoma is typically painless, but it should still be monitored in older adults. On the other hand, acute angle-closure glaucoma is an emergency. You may have:
- Sudden eye pain
- Vision changes
- Headache
- Nausea
Migraine or Cluster Headaches
Do you have pain behind only one eye? Then that's a hallmark of cluster headaches.
If you have a migraine, then you may also have visual disturbances (auras).
Optic Neuritis
Optic neuritis is inflammation of the optic nerve, and it's often associated with multiple sclerosis or infections.
Pain may come from the inflammation, as well as vision changes. You'll notice the pain worsening with eye movement.
Temporal Arteritis (Giant Cell Arteritis)
This is a serious condition that involves inflammation of the arteries in your temples. The symptoms include:
- Headache
- Scalp tenderness
- Jaw pain
- Possible vision loss
You'll need immediate medical attention if you have temporal arteritis.
How You Can Relieve Discomfort From Dry Eyes
Managing senior eye pain is simple when it comes to dry eyes. Here are the ways you can relieve dry eye discomfort in aging.
Use Artificial Tears Regularly
One of the best senior eye care tips we have for you is to use artificial tears regularly. You can buy these over-the-counter too. We'd recommend purchasing preservative-free ones if you're going to use the artificial tears frequently.
In general, you should use them 3-4 times a day. Or use them as recommended by your eye doctor.
Apply Warm Compresses
Clogged oil glands can prevent your eyes from being lubricated properly. But warm compresses can help.
Use a warm, damp washcloth and place it over your closed eyelids. Do this once or twice daily for 5-10 minutes each time. As a result, you might unclog your oil glands and improve tear quality.
Practice the 20-20-20 Rule
Do you use screens or read a lot? Then this might be contributing to your worsening dry eye symptoms.
The good news is that there's an easy way to fix that: practice the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, you should look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
A better idea is to take a break and participate in activities and events if possible. This will provide your eyes with relief, and you'll feel the pain go away.
Stay Hydrated
Dehydration can worsen dry eyes, among other health conditions, as well. It may also have an impact on your mental health.
Treat your body well and aim for 6-8 glasses of fluid daily. The exception is if you're restricted for medical reasons.
Use a Humidifier
Tampa is considered to have a humid subtropical climate, but there is a distinct dry season. During it, you should add moisture to the indoor air by using a humidifier. This can help reduce eye dryness.
Protect Your Eyes
Whenever you're outside, you should wear wraparound sunglasses. These can shield your eyes from:
- Wind
- Sun
- Dust
You need protection when indoors, too. Avoid fans or direct air vents blowing on your face if possible.
Try Omega-3 Supplements
You might already be eating well at your senior living community, but your nutrition may need extra help, especially if you have dry eyes. Omega-3 fatty acids are fantastic for reducing inflammation and improving tear production.
However, you should always consult with your doctor before starting supplements. You never know if some may interfere with the current medications you're taking.
Consider Prescription Medications
Those who have chronic dry eye inflammation may require prescription medications. For example, cyclosporine (Restasis) or lifitegrast (Xiidra) can treat it, especially regarding memory care and vision issues.
In addition, visiting your ophthalmologist may be necessary if you have persistent symptoms.
Take Care of Your Eyes
So can dry eyes cause pain behind the eye? The answer is yes. The good news is that you can relieve the pain with several easy steps, which we've outlined in the article.
What's important is that you watch out for other symptoms that point away from dry eye syndrome. In some cases, they may indicate more serious problems. If that happens, seek medical attention promptly so you don't experience worsening issues with your health.
Contact us now to hear more about senior living in Tampa, FL. Discovery Village Westchase has six stylish floor plans for our upscale apartment homes.