Key Takeaways
- Medical evidence does not show the headaches and dry eye cause one another
- People often experience screen strain and head tension at the same time
- Taking frequent breaks helps relax your facial and optical muscles
- A thorough exam identifies underlying issues with your tear film
Two Different Kinds of Discomfort
You might notice a dull ache in your forehead right soon after your dry eyes start to burn. This might even tempt you to assume that one issue leads directly to the other.
However, there is no medical evidence that dry eyes cause headaches. People who experience one of these conditions are simply more likely to also experience the other.
At Bethel Vision Care, we’re here to help you find comfort by addressing the shared habits that contribute to daily dry eye discomfort.
The Link Between Dry Eyes & Headaches
What the Evidence Shows
Dry eye and headaches frequently show up together. However, one doesn’t necessarily cause the other. Instead, it may be the case that the two conditions often have similar causes.
Why They Happen Together
Some issues seem to share similar causes. For instance, extended digital screen use can cause eye strain and pain in the neck and shoulders, which may contribute to headaches But screen use also reduces the rate at which we blink, thereby potentially contributing to dry eye.
Some autoimmune diseases like Sjörgen’s Syndrome, may also independently cause both conditions. Similarly, dry eyes and headaches are the two most common causes of photophobia or light sensitivity.
Signs & Symptoms to Look For
Even if they don’t cause each other, it’s worth knowing how to identify dry eyes and headaches.
Dry Eyes
Symptoms of dry eye include:
- A gritty texture that feels like sand trapped under your eyelids
- Sudden blurry vision issues after reading a book or working on a computer
- Discomfort from bright lights when you step outdoors or sit under office bulbs
Dry eye can often be made worse by environmental factors. For instance, dry indoor air from heaters and air conditioners removes moisture from the air and makes your eyes more prone to dryness. Similarly, outdoor factors like harsh wind, blowing dust, and seasonal allergies can also contribute.
Headaches
Headaches can often be identified by:
- Tight pressure or pain around your temples and forehead
- Tension that starts small in the morning and worsens by the late afternoon
Ways to Soothe Your Eyes & Head
The 20-20-20 Rule
Taking scheduled visual breaks gives your facial muscles time to relax. We recommend the 20-20-20 rule—every 20 minutes, take a break from screen use and look at something at least 20 feet away for a full 20 seconds. This gives your eyes a break and helps reduce strain.
Simple Daily Habits
You can help your body function smoothly by staying hydrated and drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
For dry eyes, a simple desk humidifier adds needed moisture back into your environment. Wearing a good pair of sunglasses blocks wind and dust from hitting your face directly.
Keeping your glasses prescription up-to-date helps reduce eye strain and may make you less prone to headaches.
Why Preventive Eye Care Matters
Every person experiences different levels of discomfort and requires custom care. A comprehensive eye exam allows your eye doctor to identify your vision needs and develop a personalized treatment plan for uncomfortable issues like dry eye and headaches.
Contact our team at Bethel Vision Care today to schedule an appointment.
