Is it Possible for Dry Eyes to Cause Headaches?

Many people report dry eyes and headaches. However, a connection has not been made between the two conditions, but many believe that similar triggers might lead to headaches and dry eyes. Studies have found that 20% of people who experience dry eye syndrome also have regular headaches. Researchers believe that changes in the eyes, such as dry eyes, can lead to headaches. Both headaches and dry eyes share common symptoms, such as eye pain and sensitivity to light.

If you suffer from headaches and dry eyes, schedule a consultation with Dr. Daniel Tepper at Wickerpark Eye Center in Chicago, IL. He will meet with you to discuss your headaches and dry eyes, and can create a customized treatment plan to address your concerns.

All about dry eyes

Dry eyes can feel itchy, and the uncomfortable sensation can persist for days and occur frequently. In some situations, the bouts of dry eyes are also accompanied by a headache. The condition is caused by a lack of tears or from an unbalance in the makeup of the tears.

Your eyes need tears to remain healthy. Dry eyes feel uncomfortable and can lead to problems with vision.

Dry eye syndrome occurs because of an underlying condition or the use of certain medications. If you suffer from dry eyes, there is hope. The underlying condition can be treated to bring relief to your dry eyes and help prevent recurring headaches.

Dr. Tepper will meet with you at his Chicago office to discuss solutions to treat your dry eyes. First, Dr. Tepper will perform an in-depth eye test to assess your eye health and determine why you are suffering from dry eye syndrome.

With dry eye syndrome, your eyes will feel irritated and itchy. Typically, dry eye syndrome occurs due to meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). If the chemical balance of your tears becomes unbalanced, they will not successfully lubricate your eyes. Your eyes will feel dry, and you may experience a burning sensation.

Symptoms of dry eye syndrome

The symptoms of dry eye syndrome include:

• Red eyes
• Burning and stinging
• A feeling of grittiness
• Sensitivity to light
• Stringy discharge in the corner of the eyes
• Watery eyes
• Inflammation around the eyes
• Eye fatigue
• Blurred vision.
• Headache

Causes of dry eyes

Many things can impact your eyes, such as lifestyle choices, environmental factors, or age. Eye conditions can also lead to dry eye syndrome. Other contributors of dry eyes include:

• Dry climates
• Smoking
• Windy environmental conditions
• Eye allergies
• Medical conditions such as Sjogren’s syndrome
• Hormonal changes such as pregnancy or menopause
• Too much sun
• Medications such as antidepressants and antihistamines
• Digital eye strain
• Contact lenses

Dr. Tepper will work closely with you to develop a personalized dry eye treatment plan that addresses the underlying cause of your dry eyes and helps with your headaches. He will review your past medical conditions to provide you with a complete diagnosis.

Dry eye syndrome is usually treated by addressing the underlying cause and using prescription medications and artificial tears or eye drops. If the condition does not respond to treatment, eye plugs may be placed in the tear ducts to hold the tears.

Schedule a dry eye syndrome and headache consultation in Chicago, IL

If you suffer from dry eyes and headaches, then we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Daniel Tepper at Wickerpark Eye Center in Chicago, IL. He will meet with you, listen to your concerns, and develop a customized treatment plan. Contact us to learn more.