Suffering from frequent headaches? When was your last eye exam? There are several eye conditions, both common and serious, that could be at the root of your issue. Eye Strain Induced Headaches
Eye strain is the leading cause of headaches and migraines, according to the National Headache Foundation. Eye strain occurs when your eyes tire from focusing on something for a long period of time. This could occur after extended periods of:
Driving
Reading
Computer, tablet and cell phone usage
Symptoms of eye strain are sometimes a sign of an undiagnosed refractive condition or ocular health complication. Call your optometrist if you regularly experience the following:
Headaches
Blurry vision
Dry eyes
This is especially important for individuals who haven’t had a eye exam in over a year or two. The solution could be as simple as updating your prescription or ordering special lenses such as anti-reflective lenses to reduce glare and help alleviate your symptoms.
Are Your Headaches a Symptom of a More Serious Eye Condition?
Frequent headaches could also be a symptom of a more serious eye or health condition. These can include the following:
High blood pressure and other vascular conditions: These headaches are often located in the occipital (or back portion) of the head. When connected to blood pressure there is the possibility of a significant increase in the pressure that can also cause further complications in the back of the eyes including increase in hemorrhages and swelling of the optic nerves. Symptoms often include blurry vision, chest pain, trouble breathing and dizziness.
Increased Pressure in the brain (Intracranial Pressure): These headaches are often worse in the morning and with movement. The causes of this can range from idiopathic (or unknown causes) to a tumor. This condition also can cause swelling of the optic nerve that can cause irreversible vision loss if not detected in time. Symptoms include small periods of vision loss, dizziness, vomiting, changes in mood or behaviors, blurry or double vision.
Glaucoma: Glaucoma occurs when the eye loses the ability to drain fluid properly. This causes a buildup of pressure which can damage the optic nerve. Painful, blurred vision and headaches are a symptom of angle closure glaucoma, which can be diagnosed by an optometrist.
If you’re experiencing headaches along with any of the above symptoms, it's time to contact your optometrist. A comprehensive eye exam will help to diagnose the issues discussed above.
Schedule a Comprehensive Eye Exam Today!
Experiencing frequent headaches? Overdue for an eye exam? Call Dr. Oker at Eden Prairie Eye Care today! You may simply need a new prescription special lenses in your glasses such as those that reduce glare or blue light exposure. However, if there is a more serious underlying issue, Dr. Oker will diagnose the problem to get you seeing clearly and living headache free.
Dr. Oker will work to find a solution to your discomfort. Schedule an appointment at Eden Prairie Eye Care! Call us directly at (952) 944-2792 or submit a request online.
