Understanding Eye Socket Pain on Both Sides Pain in and around the eye sockets—whether dull, sharp, or throbbing—can significantly affect daily life. When the discomfort affects both eyes simultaneously and is accompanied by headaches, temple pain, or neck stiffness, it can be a symptom of something more complex. Though eye pain often stems from harmless causes like fatigue or eye strain, bilateral orbital pain may also point to systemic or neurological conditions that require professional attention. Common Causes of Pain Behind and Around Both Eyes Ocular and Orbital Conditions Dry Eye SyndromeChronic dryness can lead to a gritty sensation and eye fatigue, often accompanied by aching around the sockets. Eye Strain (Asthenopia)Prolonged screen time or reading causes the eye muscles to work harder, leading to discomfort in and around both eye sockets. Refractive ErrorsUncorrected nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism forces the eyes to overcompensate, creating pressure and aching behind the eyes. Optic NeuritisInflammation of the optic nerve may present with pain during eye movement and blurred vision. Sinusitis-Related Orbital PainInflammation or infection in the sinuses can cause pressure and throbbing pain around both eyes and between the eyebrows. Neurological and Systemic Causes MigraineMigraine attacks commonly cause deep, pulsing pain around the eyes, often coupled with sensitivity to light, nausea, and temple pain. Tension HeadachesThese cause band-like pressure around the head, often extending to the eye sockets and forehead. Cluster HeadachesCharacterized by intense pain behind or around one eye, they may radiate to both sides in chronic cases. Cervicogenic HeadachesOriginating in the neck, especially the upper spine or occipital region, these can radiate pain to the back of the head and around both eyes. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)Severely elevated blood pressure may cause a feeling of fullness or pressure behind both eyes, sometimes linked with headache and dizziness. Thyroid Eye Disease (Graves’ Orbitopathy)An autoimmune disorder where inflammation and tissue buildup behind the eyes causes pressure, pain, and even bulging eyes (proptosis). Link Between Eye Socket Pain, Headaches, and Other Facial Pain Eye socket pain rarely occurs in isolation. It is often closely connected to: Temple Pain: Sign of tension-type headaches or temporal arteritis. Occipital Pain: Indicates cervicogenic causes or poor posture. Facial Pressure: Suggests sinus congestion or infection. Visual Disturbances: May accompany migraines, optic nerve inflammation, or raised intracranial pressure. This anatomical and neurological overlap is why precise diagnosis is essential, especially when both ocular and systemic symptoms are present. Warning Signs: When to See a Doctor Immediately Seek urgent medical attention if any of the following symptoms accompany eye socket pain: Sudden, severe pain behind both eyes Blurred or double vision Vision loss in one or both eyes Eye bulging (proptosis) Restricted or painful eye movements Severe headache with nausea or vomiting Fever and sinus pressure Stiff neck or altered consciousness These may be signs of serious conditions such as optic neuritis, orbital cellulitis, brain tumors, or meningitis. Initial Home Remedies for Eye Socket Pain While waiting to see a doctor, you may try these methods for mild, non-urgent symptoms: Rest and Eye Hygiene Reduce screen time to relieve digital eye strain Apply warm compresses over closed eyelids for 10–15 minutes Use lubricating eye drops to soothe dry or irritated eyes Practice 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds Gentle Neck and Posture Care Stretch your neck and shoulders to reduce tension headaches Ensure your work environment has ergonomic posture support Hydration and Stress Relief Stay hydrated, as dehydration can trigger headaches Reduce stress through relaxation techniques or meditation However, do not self-medicate with steroid or antibiotic eye drops without consulting a healthcare provider, as incorrect treatment can worsen the condition. Diagnosis and Treatment at Bangkok Eye Hospital At Bangkok Eye Hospital, our multidisciplinary team combines ophthalmology, neurology, and oculoplastic expertise to diagnose and manage the full spectrum of causes behind orbital and periocular pain. Comprehensive Diagnostic Approach Visual Acuity and Refraction Testing Slit-lamp Eye Examination Intraocular Pressure Measurement Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) to examine retinal and optic nerve health MRI or CT Scans for sinus, brain, or orbital imaging Blood Tests to screen for infections, autoimmune disorders, or thyroid function Tailored Treatments Based on Cause Eye Strain or Dry Eyes Artificial tears, screen time management, prescription glasses Infections (Sinusitis or Orbital Cellulitis) Oral or intravenous antibiotics Sinus drainage or ENT referral for chronic cases Optic Neuritis or Neurological Conditions Corticosteroids or immunotherapy Co-management with neurologists Migraine or Cluster Headaches Migraine prophylaxis medications Trigger management and lifestyle changes Thyroid Eye Disease Anti-inflammatory medications Eyelid surgery or orbital decompression in advanced cases Glaucoma or Raised Eye Pressure Pressure-lowering eye drops or laser/surgical treatment Related Services at Bangkok Eye Hospital Our facilities offer specialized diagnostic and treatment options to ensure your eye and overall neurological health is in expert hands: Neuro-Ophthalmology Clinic: For optic nerve and brain-related eye pain Dry Eye and Digital Eye Strain Clinic: Comprehensive evaluation and therapy Orbital and Oculoplastic Surgery Center: Advanced care for orbital disease and bulging eyes General Eye Examination Clinic: Annual eye health assessments for all ages Visual Field and OCT Imaging: Detailed testing for optic nerve health Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Is pain in both eye sockets always eye-related?Not always. It can stem from migraines, sinus issues, neck problems, or neurological disorders. A thorough examination is required. Can stress cause pain behind both eyes?Yes. Stress and poor posture can lead to tension headaches and eye strain that manifest as bilateral orbital pain. Should I worry if my eye pain comes with blurred vision?Yes. Any vision change with pain could indicate serious conditions like optic neuritis or glaucoma. Seek medical help immediately. Is it safe to take painkillers for eye socket pain?Mild over-the-counter pain relief may help temporarily, but it’s important to treat the underlying cause, not just the symptom.   How is eye socket pain diagnosed?It requires a detailed eye exam, imaging, and sometimes neurological assessment—services available at Bangkok Eye Hospital.

What is Eye Calcification? Eye calcification refers to the accumulation of calcium deposits in various parts of the eye, primarily the conjunctiva and cornea. These deposits may be superficial or embedded within deeper layers, leading to discomfort, impaired vision, and sometimes permanent damage if untreated. Though relatively rare, this condition often signifies an underlying systemic or ocular imbalance, necessitating expert diagnosis and management. Causes of Eye Calcification Understanding the root causes is critical to both treatment and prevention. The most common causes include: Systemic Conditions Hypercalcemia – Elevated calcium levels in the bloodstream due to parathyroid gland dysfunction, chronic kidney disease, or malignancy. Hyperphosphatemia – Abnormal phosphate levels that encourage calcium-phosphate salt deposition. Vitamin D toxicity – Excessive vitamin D raises calcium absorption, promoting tissue calcification. Ocular Conditions Chronic eye inflammation – Conditions like chronic conjunctivitis or keratitis may lead to localized calcium deposits. Eye trauma or post-surgical effects – Injuries or surgical scars can cause abnormal tissue healing and calcium accumulation. Chemical exposure or irritants – Long-term use of certain phosphate-containing eye drops has been linked to corneal calcification. Environmental and Lifestyle Factors Overuse of calcium/vitamin D supplements Prolonged exposure to dry environments Use of preservative-containing topical eye medications Symptoms of Eye Calcification Early Signs Persistent eye irritation or a gritty sensation Redness and mild inflammation Dryness or excessive tearing Progressive Symptoms Blurry vision or light sensitivity Appearance of white or greyish spots on the cornea Sensation of a foreign body in the eye Eye pain in severe cases Many patients remain asymptomatic during the early phase, making routine eye exams essential for early detection. Potential Risks of Untreated Eye Calcification Ignoring symptoms or delaying treatment can have serious consequences: Visual Impairment Calcium plaques can interfere with light transmission through the cornea, leading to progressive visual decline and distortion. Corneal Complications Ulcers and epithelial breakdown Increased susceptibility to secondary infections Permanent scarring, sometimes requiring corneal transplant Quality of Life Impact Chronic discomfort, light sensitivity, and reduced visual clarity can significantly affect daily activities and mental well-being. Modern Treatment Options at Bangkok Eyes Hospital Bangkok Eyes Hospital offers a multidisciplinary approach, utilizing advanced diagnostic tools and minimally invasive techniques to manage eye calcification effectively. Diagnostic Process Slit-lamp examination – Visual assessment of surface and internal deposits Anterior segment imaging – High-resolution scans to determine depth and extent Blood work – Evaluation of systemic calcium and phosphate balance Treatment Modalities Medical Management Topical chelating agents (e.g., EDTA eye drops) help dissolve superficial calcium plaques. Anti-inflammatory drops to control underlying inflammation. Lubricating eye drops for symptom relief. Surgical Procedures Superficial keratectomy – A safe, outpatient procedure to manually remove corneal calcium. Amniotic membrane transplantation – Restores damaged tissue in advanced cases and supports healing. Corneal transplant – Considered when structural integrity is severely compromised. Long-Term Monitoring and Aftercare Regular follow-ups using imaging and vision tests Adjustment of treatment for recurrent or resistant cases Coordination with nephrology or endocrinology in systemic disorders All procedures at Bangkok Eyes Hospital are performed by fellowship-trained ophthalmologists, ensuring optimal outcomes and safety. Prevention Tips for Eye Calcification While not always preventable, certain habits can significantly reduce risk: Maintain Balanced Nutrition Avoid excessive intake of vitamin D and calcium supplements without medical supervision. Include foods rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids for ocular health. Manage Chronic Conditions Monitor and treat kidney disease, thyroid/parathyroid dysfunction, and autoimmune disorders. Maintain good control of systemic inflammation and diabetes. Practice Eye Care Hygiene Use preservative-free eye drops if needed regularly. Avoid overuse of contact lenses and follow proper cleaning protocols. Limit screen time and practice the 20-20-20 rule to prevent dry eyes. Routine Eye Checkups Early detection through annual eye exams, especially for high-risk individuals, helps catch deposits before symptoms become severe. Expert Eye Care at Bangkok Eyes Hospital Bangkok Eyes Hospital is one of Thailand’s premier institutions for advanced eye care. For patients dealing with eye calcification, the hospital offers: Board-certified cornea and anterior segment specialists In-house diagnostic labs and imaging centers Access to minimally invasive surgery and laser options Tailored treatment plans for systemic and ocular contributors English-speaking medical staff for international patients With a commitment to precision, comfort, and recovery, Bangkok Eyes Hospital ensures every patient receives expert care from diagnosis to rehabilitation. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) What causes eye calcification?Eye calcification is caused by a combination of systemic imbalances (like high calcium or phosphate levels), chronic eye inflammation, trauma, or certain medications. Is eye calcification reversible?Superficial deposits can often be removed effectively, but deeper damage may require surgery or long-term management. Can I prevent eye calcification?Yes, through proper eye hygiene, balanced supplementation, routine eye exams, and managing underlying health conditions. Is surgery painful or risky?Superficial keratectomy is a low-risk, outpatient procedure with quick recovery and minimal discomfort under local anesthesia. How do I know if I have calcification?You may notice blurry vision, white spots on the eye, or irritation. However, some cases are only detectable during an eye exam. Related Services at Bangkok Eyes Hospital Corneal Disease and Surgery Center Dry Eye Management Clinic Diagnostic Imaging for Anterior Segment Systemic Health Screening for Ocular Conditions Post-Surgical Eye Rehabilitation International Patient Services with English Consultation