Headaches

Headaches are one of the most common health complaints, but what many don’t realize is how often they are tied to vision problems. If you or your child suffer from frequent headaches, especially after reading, using a computer, or spending extended time on digital devices, the source of discomfort may lie in your eyes. At Eye To Eye Optometry, we help patients of all ages find relief by identifying and treating the root causes of vision-related headaches.
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Computer Vision Syndrome & Digital Dry Eye

Prolonged screen use, whether it is from working at a computer, studying on a tablet, or scrolling on a phone, can lead to Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). This condition occurs when your eyes are forced to work harder to process digital content due to factors like poor lighting, screen glare, improper viewing distance, or uncorrected vision problems. As a result, it can cause:

• Eye strain

• Blurry vision

• Dry eyes

• Headaches

Even younger patients are increasingly affected, especially as school and entertainment shift online. Extended digital use can reduce blink rate, leading to computer-related dry eye, which further contributes to irritation and head pain.

Myopia and Headaches

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a refractive error that can cause persistent headaches when left uncorrected or poorly managed. Children or teens who squint, sit close to the TV, or complain of headaches after schoolwork may be experiencing the early signs of myopia.

Managing myopia isn’t just about clear vision, it’s also about reducing eye strain and discomfort. Modern myopia management options include:

• Ortho-K (Orthokeratology) lenses

• Atropine eye drops

• Multifocal eyeglasses or contact lenses

These treatments can slow myopia progression and help relieve associated headaches caused by constant over-focusing.

Binocular Vision Dysfunction (BVD)

Binocular Vision Dysfunction (BVD) occurs when your eyes don’t work together in perfect sync. This subtle misalignment forces the brain and eye muscles to overcompensate in order to maintain clear, single vision, which places extra stress on the visual system. As a result, it can lead to a range of symptoms, including:

• Frontal or temple headaches

• Eye fatigue

• Nausea or dizziness

• Difficulty concentrating

• Sensitivity to light

• Motion sickness
  
  

Many people with BVD don’t realize their headaches are due to this issue, especially since it’s not always detected during a standard vision screening. A comprehensive eye exam that evaluates eye alignment and binocular function is essential to properly diagnose BVD and recommend effective treatments, such as Neurolens® or prism correction.

Why You Need a Comprehensive Eye Exam

Because there are multiple potential vision-related causes of headaches, a thorough eye exam is essential for identifying the underlying issue. At Eye To Eye Optometry, we go beyond checking for 20/20 vision, we assess your overall visual function, eye teaming, tear film health, and refractive error to find the right solution.

Depending on the cause of your headaches, treatment might include:

• Updating your glasses or contact lens prescription

• Neurolens® to correct small misalignments and relieve digital eye strain

• Myopia management options for younger patients

• Specialty lenses or eye drops to reduce dry eye symptoms
  
  

Find Headache Relief at Eye To Eye Optometry

If you’re dealing with recurring headaches and suspect your eyes might be the cause, don’t wait. A comprehensive eye exam could provide the clarity and relief you’ve been searching for.

Schedule your appointment with Eye To Eye Optometry today and take the first step toward better vision and fewer headaches