Are you suffering from pain in the corner of your eye? If yes, it could be due to a variety of reasons. It can often be due to allergies, strain, styes or dryness. Moreover, it can be due to eye infections such as conjunctivitis or even blocked tear ducts, which is also known as dacryocystitis. Furthermore, it could be a signal of some serious issues such as glaucoma or orbital cellulitis. Mild cases can be treated at home with home care remedies such as warm compresses, but in case of severe pain or changes in vision, it is important to get it checked by a doctor, as he will prescribe antibiotics or specific eye drops. He can even suggest urgent treatment if required.

Common causes behind pain

Strain or dry eyes: Focusing or a lack of lubrication can lead to a burning sensation or aching.
Conjunctivitis: Also known as the Pink Eye, it refers to the infection or inflammation which causes redness and watering in the eyes, accompanied by itching.
Chalazion/ Stye (Hordeolum): These are the bumps which appear on the eyelid and are very painful. They are caused by the infected glands.
Foreign object: It feels like something is stuck in your eye, which is causing a gritty feeling or a sharp pain.
Dacryocystitis: It is the blocked tear duct which causes redness, swelling and even tenderness near the inner corners of the eyes.
Sinusitis: Sinus infection can cause pressure on the face, specifically around the eyes.
Blepharitis: It refers to the inflammation of the eyelid, which can further lead to redness or soreness.

When to schedule a doctor’s appointment?

You must seek prompt medical care if you are suffering from:

Blurriness, light sensitivity or changes in vision.
Severe pain.
Yellow or green coloured discharge, which is thick.
Swelling, fever or inability to move the eye.

If the symptoms worsen over time, you need to contact the eye doctor immediately.

Home care

Lubricating eye drops: They help in relieving irritation and also dryness.
Warm compresses: They help in soothing styes and also inflammation. You are required to do it for at least 10to 15 minutes, several times a day.
Avoid rubbing your eyes: If you avoid rubbing your eyes, it will prevent worsening or aggravating the infection or irritation.
OTC pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help ease the pain as well as inflammation.

Potential treatment options

Steroid eye drops: These are generally used for inflammation.
Antibiotics: They are prescribed for various bacterial infections.
Tear duct procedures: They are advised for persistent blockages.

Conclusion

If you are unable to bear the pain in the corner of your eye, and it is not going away on its own even after self-care, you need a visit to an ophthalmologist. You must visit Mitra Eye Hospital and get your eyes checked to know the cause of the pain in the corner of your eye. Dr H Mitra, having an experience of more than 26 years in the field of ophthalmology, provides effective treatment with utmost care. It is important for you to seek prompt medical attention in case you experience severe pain in the corner of your eye or changes in your vision.

FAQs

Q1: Do I need to visit the eye doctor if I have eye pain that is accompanied by nausea and vomiting?

A: Certainly! You must visit the doctor immediately if your pain is severe and it is accompanied by nausea and vomiting.

Q2: Can the pain in the corner of my eye be due to contact lenses?

A: Yes, dirty or ill-fitting contact lenses could be the reason behind the eye pain.