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Headache behind the eyes: frequent causes

What can cause eye and frontal pressure or pain, and how to differentiate it from a migraine.

Headache behind the eyes or in the frontal area is very common and in most cases has benign causes related to lifestyle.


Frequent causes


Eye strain: Spending many hours in front of screens without rest generates visual fatigue that manifests as pressure behind the eyes. The most common cause in young adults.


Sinusitis: Inflammation of the paranasal sinuses produces facial pressure and pain felt behind the eyes and in the forehead. Usually accompanied by nasal congestion.


Migraine: Migrainous pain frequently starts behind one eye and spreads. May be accompanied by light sensitivity, nausea and blurred vision.


Cluster headache: Intense, pulsating pain around one eye, usually nocturnal.


Warning signs


  • Sudden, extremely intense pain
  • High fever with the pain
  • Neck stiffness
  • Double vision or vision loss

    • When to act?


    For mild screen-related pain: rest your eyes every 20 minutes, stay hydrated and ventilate the space. If pain is recurrent, consult your doctor.

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    This article is informational and educational. It does not replace professional medical evaluation. If in doubt, consult your doctor or call emergency services.