Eye pain can be caused by damage or disorders of the cornea, glaucoma, or scleritis. Corneal ulcers can result from bacterial or viral infections, while acute angle-closure glaucoma occurs when the eye’s drainage channels become blocked. Scleritis is associated with diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. Lubricating eye drops and sunglasses can help relieve pain.
Eye pain can be disconcerting to anyone when it occurs. Damage or disturbance to any part of the eye can cause severe pain. The most common causes of acute eye pain include irritations and disorders of the cornea, glaucoma and scleritis. Sharp eye pain can get worse when exposed to light and should be examined by an ophthalmologist.
The human eye is made up of several structures including the pupil, iris, cornea, and sclera. In the center of the eye is the pupil, which allows light to enter the eye. Surrounding it is the iris, the colored part of the eye. The cornea covers both the pupil and the iris. The sclera is the white part of the eye.
Sharp pain can occur when the cornea is scratched or damaged by a foreign object. Something as simple as wiping the eye with a hard paper towel can scratch the eye and cause severe eye pain. Examples of foreign objects that can damage the cornea include metal shavings, wood splinters, and dust particles. Lubricating eye drops and over-the-counter pain relievers can be used to relieve pain after an eye wash to ensure the eye is clean and free of debris.
Open sores located on the cornea, known as corneal ulcers, also lead to acute eye pain. Corneal ulcers are the result of bacterial and viral infections and are more common in contact lens wearers. Corneal ulcers can form due to improper eye care when using contacts or from a scratch or abrasion on the surface of the cornea that becomes infected. Treatment is targeted at the cause of the ulcer and often involves the use of eye drops and ointments.
Acute angle-closure glaucoma is another possible cause of acute eye pain. This occurs when the eye’s drainage channels become blocked. When this happens, the pressure inside the eye builds up leading to sudden pain, headache and blurred vision. Surgery is needed to correct the problem.
Another possible cause of severe eye pain is scleritis. Typically, scleritis is associated with diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. With scleritis, exposure to light causes extreme eye pain. Treatment involves the use of corticosteroid eye drops.
Bright light can also cause eye pain during migraine episodes. Also, exposure to bright light can irritate infected or injured eyes. Wearing sunglasses can help limit the pain associated with light exposure.
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