Frequent headaches can be more than just a discomfort—they might be a sign of underlying vision issues. We often see patients who are surprised to learn that their persistent headaches are related to their eyesight. Understanding this connection can help you address the root cause of your headaches and improve your overall well-being.
Vision-Related Headaches: What You Need to Know
Headaches related to vision problems are more common than you might think. These headaches can result from various eye conditions, and identifying the cause is crucial for effective treatment.
Eye Strain
Eye strain is a leading cause of headaches, especially in technology driven lifestyles. When we spend extended periods focusing on screens or reading, our eye muscles can become fatigued, leading to what is commonly known as an eye strain headache. But what do eye strain headaches feel like? Typically, they present as a dull ache around the eyes, temples, or forehead, often worsening as the day progresses.
Poor Eyesight
Poor eyesight can indeed cause headaches. When your eyes struggle to focus due to uncorrected refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism, they work overtime, leading to tension headaches. If you’re experiencing frequent headaches and haven’t had an eye exam recently, it might be time to see an eye doctor.
Can Dry Eyes Cause Headaches?
Yes. Dry eyes can lead to discomfort and irritation, which in turn can trigger headaches. When your eyes are dry, they may become more sensitive to light and more prone to strain, both of which can contribute to headache symptoms.
When to See an Eye Doctor in Lake Oswego
If you’re experiencing persistent headaches, it’s essential to determine whether they might be vision related. Here’s when to see an eye doctor:
- Frequent or Persistent Headaches: If you notice that your headaches are frequent and persistent, particularly after visual tasks, it’s worth scheduling an eye exam.
- Associated Eye Symptoms: If your headaches are accompanied by symptoms like blurred vision, eye pain, or sensitivity to light, these could be signs of an underlying vision issue.
- Headaches That Don’t Respond to Usual Treatments: If over-the-counter pain relievers aren’t helping, or if your headaches persist despite rest, it may be time to explore the possibility of a vision problem.
How Cascadia Eye Care Can Help
We specialize in diagnosing and treating vision-related headaches. Our comprehensive eye exams are designed to identify any underlying vision problems, from refractive errors to dry eye syndrome, that could be contributing to your headaches. Plus, as eye doctors that accept vision insurance, we’re committed to making quality eye care accessible to everyone in our community.
Persistent headaches shouldn’t be ignored, especially if they could be linked to vision problems. If you’re struggling with frequent headaches, contact us in Lake Oswego, Oregon, to request an appointment and get to the bottom of the issue.