Have you ever had dry, irritated eyes accompanied by a headache? This might lead you to believe that your dry eyes are causing your headaches, but is that true?
The answer is no, dry eyes don’t cause headaches, but they can be connected. Tension headaches can be caused by eye strain resulting from dry eyes. Staring at screens for too long can lead to digital eye strain which can cause dry eyes and headaches. Finally, some people have nerve systems in their faces that make them more likely to experience dry eye and migraines.
What Is Dry Eye?
Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the quality of your tears is poor. Tears are essential for keeping the surface of your eyes lubricated, nourished, and comfortable. When your natural tear production or function falters, it can lead to dryness, redness, irritation, and a gritty sensation in the eyes.
Common Causes of Dry Eyes
Some factors that may lead to dry eyes include:
- Prolonged screen use.
- Decreased tear production from aging.
- Environmental factors like wind, smoke, or low humidity.
- Wearing contact lenses for too long or improperly fitted contacts.
- Certain medications, such as antidepressants or antihistamines
While dry eye syndrome commonly impacts those with busy, tech-heavy lifestyles, it isn’t something you simply have to live with.
The Link Between Dry Eyes & Headaches
While a headache and dry eyes might initially seem unrelated, the connection is more intertwined than you might think.
How Tension from Dry Eye Triggers Headaches
When the surface of your eye lacks adequate lubrication, it can force your eyes to work harder to focus, leading to eye strain and tension in the muscles around the eyes. This strain often travels to surrounding areas, like your temples or forehead, leading to tension headaches.
Screen Uses, Dry Eye, & Headaches
Dry eyes often coexist with digital eye strain. Known as computer vision syndrome, this condition arises from prolonged screen use, causing symptoms such as:
- Blurry vision
- Neck or shoulder pain
- Headaches
- Increased dryness or watering of the eyes
This means that dry eye caused by digital eye strain may also be accompanied by headaches.
Migraines & Dry Eye
Some research has found that there are people who have more sensitive nerves in their faces that make them more likely to experience both dry eyes and migraines. So while your migraines may not be caused by dry eye, they may have the same underlying cause.
Signs Your Dry Eye & Headaches Are Related
You might have dry eyes and be unaware they’re contributing to your headaches. Here are a few key signs to look for:
- Persistent irritation in your eyes, especially after work or screen time
- Sensitivity to light (also called photophobia), which may accompany migraines
- A burning sensation in the eyes coupled with dull aches around the forehead or temples
- A feeling of pressure behind the eyes
Do these symptoms sound familiar? If so, consider consulting an eye care professional to get help treating your dry eye.
Caring for Your Dry Eyes
While dry eye syndrome and its associated tension headaches might feel like a vicious cycle, there are ways to break it. Here’s a practical guide to soothe your eyes.
1. Lubricate with Artificial Tears
Over-the-counter artificial tear drops can add moisture and relieve irritation. Look for preservative-free versions for frequent use.
2. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule
The 20-20-20 rule is meant to help reduce digital eye strain. For every 20 minutes spent looking at a screen, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Not only does this ease eye strain, but it also prevents headaches from compounding.
3. Seek Professional Help
Finally, if the symptoms persist, visit an eye care specialist. They might recommend:
- iLux Systems uses heat to gently free the oil glands in the eyelid from built-up oil and debris, improving gland function and tear quality.
- Punctual plugs are inserted into the corners of the eyes to reduce tear drainage to keep tears on the surface of the eye for longer, improving lubrication.
4. Warm Compresses
Similar to the iLux system at home warm compresses can gently melt oil buildup in the meibomian glands, leading to dry eye relief and better tear quality. To make a warm compress, moisten a face cloth with warm water and gently press it against your eyes for 10-15 minutes.
5. Eyelid Wipes
Dry eye can be caused by poor eyelid hygiene. If you have dry eyes, gently cleansing your eyelids with eyelid wipes or diluted baby shampoo can help cleanse the meibomian glands and promote better tear production.
Find Dry Eye Relief with Visionary Eye Centre
Whether it’s the pain of reoccurring headaches or the discomfort of dry eyes, living with these symptoms is not your only option. By addressing dry eye syndrome early with lifestyle tweaks or professional treatment, you can reduce headaches and improve your daily quality of life. At Visionary Eye Centre we offer personalized dry eye therapies to help you find dry eye relief. Book an appointment today to reach your eye health goals.
