Eye Pain Associated With Cluster Headaches
Did you ever wake up with intense throbbing and pressure in your eye? Does it feel like you have a headache pressing your eye region? Is the pain making it difficult to function or focus on your daily tasks?
If you have experienced these problems, you may be suffering from a cluster headache. According to the National Headache Foundation, “Cluster headaches often awaken the sufferer in the early morning or during the night and have been called ‘alarm clock headaches.’”
Symptoms in the Eye Region
Many describe the eye pain from cluster headaches as follows:
● Localized discomfort behind the eye or in the eye region
● Pain radiates to the forehead, temple, nose, cheek or upper gum on the affected side
● Swollen or drooping eyelid
● Pupil may contract
In addition, the Mayo Clinic indicates that those with cluster headaches experience these eye-related problems:
● Excessive tearing
● Redness in your eye on the affected side
● Swelling around your eye on the affected side of your face
Some describe the sensation of a cluster headache as a hot poker in the eye. Others feel like something is pushing their eye out of its socket.
Tips to Avoid Cluster Headaches and Eye Pain
To avoid the severe eye pain associated with cluster headaches, you can take some preventative steps. Here are a few precautions:
● Rest your eyes throughout the day: Ease eye strain by resting your eyes regularly throughout the day. Avoid staring at a computer screen or reading without periodic breaks.
● Exercise regularly: Some have reported that vigorous exercise reduces the pain of these and other headaches. Besides additional health benefits, regular exercise may help you avoid the intensity of cluster headaches.
● Maintain a regular sleep schedule: Some cluster headache sufferers have experienced attacks after altering their sleep schedule. A regular schedule, including naps when needed, helps ensure overall health.
● Avoid alcohol: You may enjoy a drink with dinner, but alcohol consumption can spark a cluster headache. By skipping your nightcap, you’ll also promote a deeper level of sleep, which will lead to increased sharpness of the mind and eyes.
The experienced ophthalmologists and optometrists at East Side Eye Associates (212-861-6200) and Tribeca Eye Associates (212-693-7200) specialize in all of these conditions. To improve your vision while you work at your computer, call us now.
