Eye Pain

Eye pain can affect one or both eyes and may result from various causes, including injuries, inflammation, and infections. The appropriate treatment for eye pain depends on its underlying cause and may involve the use of eye drops, protective eye shields, or surgical intervention.

FDA Approved

Advanced Technology

UK Eye Pain Statistics

Key UK Statistics on Eye Pain and Health

0 +

Experience migraines

0 %

Digital eye strain

0

Glaucoma related eye pain

0 %

Will experience Conjunctivitis

What is Eye Pain or Pain Behind the Eye?

Eye pain can be described as sharp, aching, or throbbing, and it may occur in one or both eyes. Additionally, it can be localised, such as pain behind the eye.

This type of eye pain is more serious than the minor irritation caused by a foreign particle like dirt or an eyelash, or the eyestrain experienced after prolonged computer use.

In such minor cases, relief is typically achieved once the irritant is removed or by resting the eyes, such as by closing them or applying a cool compress.

However, more serious eye pain is characterised by its intensity, persistence, and may be accompanied by other symptoms. This type of pain can indicate an underlying health issue or injury.

It is crucial to consult a healthcare provider promptly if you experience new or worsening eye pain or pain behind the eye.

Our Centres

A simple green circle with a white eye icon in the center, symbolizing visibility or view.

If you have eye pain or pain behind the eye, make sure you are seen by an eye care professional such as your optician / optometrist, ophthalmologist or the nearest Eye Accident and Emergency. For more information call 0800 011 2884 or email our team using the button below.

A white eye icon with a circular outline is centered on a solid red background.

Eye pain is unusual and requires prompt attention by an eye care professional.

There are many different types of pain and each represents a different type of problem.

Pain can be associated with redness, sensitivity to light and loss of vision all of which are serious.

What are the common causes of eye pain?

dry eye clinic East Grinstead
A turquoise eye icon is centered on a dark blue circular background.

Inadequate tear production causing discomfort

A person wearing a light shirt sits and holds a black smartphone with both hands, looking at the screen as if concentrating or perhaps experiencing mild pain behind the eye. The background is softly blurred.
A turquoise eye icon is centered on a dark blue circular background.

Eye fatigue caused by prolonged screen use

An older woman sits at an eye examination machine while an eye doctor prepares to examine her vision in a clinical setting, seeking to determine the cause of her pain behind the eye.
A turquoise eye icon is centered on a dark blue circular background.

Increased eye pressure leading to pain

what are the treatments for Eye Pain?

Eye pain can result from various conditions, ranging from dry eye and digital strain to more serious issues like glaucoma or corneal abrasions.

Treatment depends on the underlying cause, with common solutions including lubricating eye drops, prescription medications, and lifestyle adjustments such as regular breaks from screen time.

For conditions like cataracts or glaucoma, surgery or specialised procedures may be necessary. Additionally, managing eye pain may involve using warm compresses, adjusting your environment, or taking over-the-counter pain relievers. Whether due to an eye injury, migraine, or sinus-related issues, it’s essential to address the root cause and consult an eye care professional for a personalised treatment plan.

Understanding the range of treatments available can help you find effective relief and preserve your eye health.

Diagnosis & Assessment

A detailed examination will determine the cause of your eye pain and allow your consultant to advise on the best treatment plan.

1

How We Assess Your Vision

Centre for Sight provides a thorough eye assessment to identify the cause of your eye pain.

Duration: 60-90 minutes

What to Expect

Vision checks using up to 16 diagnostic tests

Consultant led care

Review of your symptoms and lifestyle

2

Tests and scans you may have

All of our assessments use state-of-the-art equipment to build a complete picture of your eye health.

Duration: 60-90 minutes

What to Expect

Comfortable, non-invasive tests

Clear explanation of the results

Identification of the root cause of your eye pain

Recommended next steps

3

What Happens At Your First Appointment

Your first visit is designed to be thorough yet comfortable, giving you clear answers and a personalised plan for treatment of your eye pain.

Duration: 60-90 minutes

What to Expect

Same-day insights into your eye pain

Tailored management plan

Our Consultants

Meet our team of expert and world-renowned Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeons

Why Choose Centre for Sight

Centre for Sight is one of the UK’s most established and pioneering eye care providers, with over 30 years of experience and multiple national firsts. We were the first clinic in the UK to perform LASIK, and among the earliest to introduce femtosecond laser technology for both laser eye surgery and cataract procedures. Our consultants have collectively performed over 35,000 cataract surgeries, delivering exceptional outcomes backed by audited results and world-class surgical expertise. You will benefit from fully consultant-led care, advanced diagnostic technology, and personalised treatment planning,  all supported by our reputation as a trusted centre where ophthalmologists from around the world come to observe and train. At Centre for Sight, innovation, safety, and excellence are built into every step of your journey.

Patient Success Stories

Our Centres

London Centre

Suite 2, 14 Queen Anne Street, Marylebone, London W1G 9LG, UK
photophobia

Centre for Sight London, located at 14 Queen Anne St, Suite 2, in the prestigious Harley Street area, offers consultations, follow-up care, and YAG laser procedures.

Google map

Entrance to a beige stone apartment building with six steps, brass railings, potted plants, glass double doors, and the number 14 on the right side. Black metal fence runs along the street in front.

Sussex Centre

Hazelden Place, Turners Hill Road, East Grinstead, West Sussex, RH19 4RH

A woman in a gray blazer with a yellow name tag operates an ophthalmology device in a medical office, smiling and looking slightly to the side.

Arguably the most modern private eye hospital in the UK, our hospital in Sussex offers Laser Vision Correction, Corneal Transplants, Stem Cell Surgery and more.

Google map

A modern, single-story brick building with a gray metal roof. The sign reads “Centre for Sight.” Trees and greenery are visible in the background.

Surrey Centre

48 High Street, Oxshott, Surrey, KT22 0JR

Smiling person wearing a purple medical scrub top and a colorful surgical cap, standing indoors against a plain background.

Centre for Sight London, located at 14 Queen Anne St, Suite 2, in the prestigious Harley Street area, offers consultations, follow-up care, and YAG laser procedures.

Google map

A brick building houses a vision clinic called “Centre for Sight.” Large windows display a sign for laser eye surgery. Next to the clinic is an outdoor seating area with red umbrellas and greenery.

Latest News

Explore our most recent updates, expert insights and news from across our clinics.

Common questions relating to eye pain

Find quick answers to common eye pain concerns and treatments.

Eye pain can result from several conditions, including dry eyes, digital eye strain, glaucoma, corneal abrasions, infections, and even migraines. Environmental factors, such as prolonged screen time or allergies, can also contribute to discomfort.

Treatment for dry eyes typically involves lubricating eye drops, prescription medications like cyclosporine, and lifestyle changes such as using a humidifier or taking regular breaks from screen use. In some cases, punctal plugs or warm compresses may be recommended to improve tear production.

Digital eye strain, or computer vision syndrome, results from prolonged screen use and causes symptoms like eye discomfort, dryness, and fatigue. Treatment includes taking frequent breaks, using anti-reflective glasses, adjusting screen brightness, and staying hydrated. Lubricating eye drops can also provide relief.

If you experience persistent or severe eye pain, vision changes, or other symptoms like redness, light sensitivity, or nausea, it’s important to consult an eye care professional. Sudden or intense pain, especially with headaches or blurred vision, may indicate a serious condition like glaucoma or an eye injury that requires immediate medical attention.

To prevent eye pain, incorporate regular breaks from screens, stay hydrated, use proper lighting, and wear sunglasses outdoors. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in omega-3s and practicing good eye hygiene can also improve overall eye health.

Have Questions?

Our patient care team is here to answer any questions you may have.