Pain & Pressure
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Why Do I Feel Eye Pain or Pressure?
Pain or pressure in or around your eyes can feel like a dull ache, heaviness, or even a sharp, stabbing sensation. While some causes are mild and temporary, others may require urgent attention.
These symptoms shouldn’t be ignored - especially if they are new, worsening, or affecting your vision or daily comfort.
Common Symptoms
You may experience:
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Headaches around the temples
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Sharp, stabbing, or throbbing pain
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Tenderness around or behind the eyes
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Pain when moving your eyes
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A feeling of pressure behind the eyes
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Nausea or general discomfort
What Can Cause Eye Pain or Pressure?
There are several possible causes, ranging from minor to more serious:
Common (Less Serious) Causes
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Eye strain (screens, reading, fatigue)
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Dry eyes
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Sinus congestion or sinus infections
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Incorrect or outdated glasses
More Serious Causes
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Increased eye pressure (which may be linked to glaucoma)
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Eye inflammation (such as uveitis)
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Optic nerve inflammation
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Eye infections or injury
When Should You Seek Urgent Care?
Seek immediate attention if you experience:
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Sudden or severe eye pain
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Pain with reduced or blurred vision
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Halos around lights
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Nausea or vomiting with eye pain
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Light sensitivity with discomfort
These may be signs of conditions that require urgent treatment.
Our Role in Your Care
At Chapman-Davies Optometry, we take a thorough and investigative approach to eye pain.
Your examination may include:
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Assessment of your vision and symptoms
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Measurement of eye pressure
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Detailed evaluation of eye structures
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Review of your health history and lifestyle factors
This helps us determine whether your symptoms are due to:
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Eye strain or dry eye
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Sinus-related pressure
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Inflammation or infection
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Conditions affecting eye pressure or the optic nerve
If required, we’ll coordinate care with your GP or ophthalmologist to ensure you receive the right treatment quickly.