Many things cause eye pain when blinking. Eye pain when blinking can occur throughout the eye or in certain areas, such as the corner of the eye or on the eyelid. Generally, eye pain when blinking is rarely caused by serious conditions and can heal on its own or with simple treatment.
However, you should still be alert if the eye pain you experience is accompanied by other symptoms. Because it can be a sign of a more serious condition and requires emergency medical attention.
How to Deal with Sore Eyes When Blinking
Treatment for eye pain when blinking can vary depending on the cause. Here’s how to deal with eye pain when blinking according to the cause, namely:
1. Eye Injury
Dirt that enters the eye can injure the eye or eye socket, causing pain when blinking. Scratches on the surface of the eye (cornea) due to rubbing or touching the eye are also common causes of eye injury. Eye injuries can be caused by excessive exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun or contact with certain substances.
Usually, minor eye injuries are easily treated with eye drops to relieve discomfort and prevent infection. The use of eye drops also aims to reduce pain, prevent infection, or relax the eye muscles.
In the case of chemical burns, the affected eye should be immediately flushed with sterile cool water. Serious burns require medical attention and may require surgery. Therefore, it is best to take the victim to the nearest hospital immediately.
2. Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis is a fairly common eye condition that can make your eyes hurt when you blink. However, this eye condition is easily treated with home remedies such as using a cold compress to relieve irritation, using eye drops, and maintaining eye hygiene, as well as avoiding allergens that can worsen conjunctivitis.
3. Stye
A sty can be a little painful when you blink. However, don’t worry, styes are easy to treat by applying a warm compress several times a day to reduce swelling. Avoid wearing makeup around the affected eye or wearing contact lenses until the sty is completely gone.
4. Tear Duct Infection
Tear duct infections are usually treated with antibiotics. Doctors also usually prescribe eye drops to help reduce symptoms. In rare cases, surgery may be necessary.
5. Blepharitis
Blepharitis is a condition where the edge of the upper or lower eyelid becomes inflamed. This condition can cause the eyelids to become sore and cause pain when blinking. Blepharitis cannot be cured, but symptoms can be relieved by keeping the eyelids clean, applying warm compresses for 5-10 minutes, and gently massaging the eyelids to help with oil secretion.
6. Corneal Ulcer
Corneal ulcers are sores on the cornea caused by a viral, fungal, or bacterial infection. Depending on the cause, corneal ulcers are usually treated with antibiotics, antifungals, or antivirals. Applying cold compresses and avoiding rubbing or touching the eyes will help reduce symptoms.
7. Optic Neuritis
Optic neuritis occurs when the optic nerve becomes inflamed and interferes with the transmission of visual information between the eye and the brain. Many cases of optic neuritis do not require medical treatment and resolve on their own. However, persistent cases may be treated with steroids to reduce inflammation. Steroids can be given as injections or tablets.
8. Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye syndrome can usually be treated with over-the-counter eye drops and anti-inflammatories. Some lifestyle changes can also help, such as reducing screen time, drinking plenty of water, and limiting caffeine intake.
9. Keratitis
Mild cases of keratitis are treated with antibacterial eye drops. More severe cases may require antibiotics to fight the infection.
Those are some conditions that can cause your eyes to hurt when blinking. Before trying a particular treatment, make sure you consult a doctor first to ensure its safety.