Can Dry Eyes Cause Pain Behind the Eye?

More than 16 million Americans live with dry eye, according to the National Eye Institute, making it one of the most common eye conditions today, especially for older adults. At Marbella Chico, a senior living community in Chico, CA, located 90 miles north of Sacramento, we know how important it is to take care of aging eyesight.

Many residents and families ask: can dry eyes cause pain behind eye? It's a good question, and one that doesn't always have a simple answer. While dry eyes often lead to discomfort, not all eye pain is the same.

In this blog post, we'll explain what dry eye is, how it relates to pain behind the eyes, and what older adults can do to feel better.

What Are Dry Eyes?

Dry eyes happen when your eyes don't make enough tears or when the tears dry up too quickly. Tears aren't just for crying, as they help keep your eyes moist, clear, and comfortable.

When your eyes are dry, you might feel a stinging or burning sensation. Some people say it feels like there's something gritty or sandy in their eyes.

This condition is very common, especially in older adults. As we get older, tear production in our eyes tends to decrease. Certain medications, like those for allergies or high blood pressure, can make it worse.

Dry indoor air, wind, and screen use can also lead to dryness. People with dry eyes might notice:

Redness
Blurry vision
Watery eyes

That last one may sound strange, but it's your eyes trying to make up for the lack of moisture. If you notice these symptoms often, it's a good idea to talk to your doctor or eye specialist.

Can Dry Eyes Cause Pain Behind Eye?

Dry eyes can cause a range of symptoms, but one of the most confusing is pain or pressure that feels like it's behind the eye. In most cases, dry eye doesn't directly cause deep pain behind the eyeball. However, it can lead to eye discomfort that people describe as aching, pressure, or a heavy feeling around the eyes.

When your eyes are dry, they have to work harder to stay open and focused. This can lead to eye fatigue, which sometimes feels like pain behind the eyes. Blurry vision, straining to read, or squinting can make this worse, especially for older adults already dealing with senior vision changes.

It's also common for people to confuse dry eye symptoms with those from other conditions, like tension headaches or sinus problems. If the pain is strong or doesn't go away, it's important to get it checked out. Dry eyes can be managed, but ongoing pain should never be ignored.

Other Common Causes of Pain Behind the Eye

As we've noted, not all pain behind the eye is caused by dry eyes. In fact, there are several other possible reasons for this kind of discomfort. A frequent reason is a sinus infection, which can cause pressure and pain near the eyes.

Migraines are another possible reason. Many people with migraines feel a sharp or throbbing pain behind one eye.

Eye strain from too much screen time or reading without breaks can also lead to this type of pain. Glaucoma, a serious eye condition more common in older adults, may cause pressure or pain behind the eyes as well.

Unlike dry eye signs, which often include burning or a gritty feeling, glaucoma symptoms may also involve blurry vision or loss of peripheral sight.

If you or a loved one feels pain behind the eye, it's important not to assume it's just dryness. A proper diagnosis can help rule out more serious issues and lead to the right treatment.

Why Dry Eyes Are Common in Seniors

Dry eyes are particularly common in seniors due to natural changes in the body as we age. Tear production tends to decrease over time, making it harder for the eyes to stay moist and comfortable.

Many older adults also take medications for conditions like high blood pressure, allergies, or depression, which can contribute to dry eyes. Additionally, health issues like arthritis, diabetes, or hormonal changes during menopause can further increase the risk.

Here at Marbella Chico, we understand how aging affects our residents' vision. We prioritize providing the best care to ensure their eyes stay as healthy as possible. From regular check-ups to personalized care, we make sure our residents feel comfortable and informed about managing conditions like dry eyes.

If you or a loved one experiences eye discomfort, we're here to offer support and guidance every step of the way.

When to See a Doctor

While dry eyes are common, there are times when it's important to see a doctor. If you experience sharp or ongoing pain behind the eye, changes in vision, or eyes that are very red or sensitive to light, it could be a sign of something more serious. Sudden symptoms should never be ignored, especially if they affect daily activities like reading or watching TV.

If over-the-counter eye drops don't help, or the symptoms keep coming back, it's a good idea to schedule a medical visit. An eye specialist can check for other conditions and recommend the right treatment.

At Marbella Chico, we encourage all residents to speak up about any new or uncomfortable symptoms. Good health starts with being informed and taking action. As part of our regular Chico wellness tips, we remind seniors and their families to stay alert to changes in eye health and seek help when needed.

Stay Comfortable With Supportive Senior Eye Care

To sum up, dry eyes are common in older adults and can lead to discomfort that feels like pressure or pain. While the answer to can dry eyes cause pain behind eye isn't always simple, understanding the symptoms and getting proper care can make a big difference.

At Marbella Chico, we support aging adults with personalized attention, wellness-focused living, and a caring team that understands senior health needs. If you're looking for a comfortable and supportive community in Chico, we invite you to experience the Marbella Chico difference.