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Headaches are incredibly common, and as long as they’re only occasional, they're rarely cause for concern. If you’ve been experiencing more frequent or more severe headaches, though, it’s wise to seek a diagnosis. Before making an appointment with your primary care provider, consider calling an optometrist. Eye problems are a leading cause of headaches. Here’s what you should know about the link between vision and pain if you suffer from recurring headaches. 

When Eye Problems Can Cause Headaches 

Poor vision is a common cause of headaches. When your vision is less than perfect, the eyes have to work harder to help the brain interpret what it’s seeing. After a while, this strain can hurt your eyes and your head. If you already rely on corrective eyewear but still suffer from headaches, it could be a sign that your prescription needs updating. Staring at digital screens all day is another cause of eye strain and, subsequently, headaches.

Other eye problems that can cause this kind of pain and discomfort include acute angle-closure glaucoma and ocular ischemic syndrome. Acute angle-closure glaucoma is a relatively rare condition that comes on suddenly and causes a sharp spike in eye pressure. Ocular ischemic syndrome, on the other hand, is characterized by a lack of blood flow to the eye. These require diagnosis and treatment from an eye doctor. 

When Headaches Can Affect the Eyes

eye problemsSometimes, headaches can cause eye problems. For example, migraines, which can last for hours or even days, can affect your field of vision. They might cause flashing lights, “floaters” (shadows of fibers in the vitreous fluid), or blurred vision. Cluster headaches, which are severe aches that recur over a several-week period and typically affect just one side of the head, can also affect vision. In addition to causing pain that radiates down the neck and shoulder, cluster headaches can cause drooping lids, red or watery eyes, and changes in pupil size. 

 

If you think eye problems could be responsible for your headaches, turn to Progressive Vision Group in High Point, NC. For more than a decade, locals have been turning to their knowledgeable team for comprehensive vision care. Whether you need a contact lens fitting or glaucoma treatment, you can rely on their friendly providers. To request an appointment, call (336) 841-2028. Learn more about the team on the website.

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