Eye Pain
Eye pain can have many causes; severe, sudden, or contact lens-related pain needs attention.
What is it?
Eye pain has many possible causes, from mild surface irritation to serious conditions requiring urgent care. Severe, sudden, or worsening eye pain — especially with vision changes — should be assessed without delay.
Common symptoms
- Aching, stabbing, or burning pain in or around the eye
- May be associated with redness, discharge, or vision change
Risk factors
- Dry eye disease
- Corneal abrasion or corneal ulcer
- Eye infections or inflammation such as uveitis
- Contact lens misuse
- Elevated intraocular pressure or acute angle-closure glaucoma
Prevention tips
- Maintain good eyelid and contact lens hygiene
- Protect the eyes from injury by wearing appropriate eye protection
- Treat dry eye disease and other underlying eye conditions promptly
- Avoid rubbing the eyes excessively
- Seek prompt medical attention if eye pain is severe, sudden, or associated with reduced vision
Treatment overview
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Lubricating eye drops may relieve discomfort caused by dry eye, while infections and inflammatory conditions require targeted treatment. Elevated intraocular pressure, corneal ulcers, and other serious causes may need urgent ophthalmic management.
Seek urgent care if you notice
- Severe or sudden eye pain
- Eye pain associated with reduced vision
- Eye pain with redness, nausea, or vomiting
- Pain following eye injury or chemical exposure
- Increasing pain or sensitivity to light
Related eye care tips
Have questions about your eyes?
This information is general education and does not replace a professional eye examination. If you are worried about your eyes, book an appointment.