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Re: Headaches, Dry Eyes, Burning Sensation

Posted on June 26, 2009, 2:21 pm by Dr. Virginia Donati

Posted in Eye Conditions & Diseases, Eye Pain, Headaches

Tony wrote:

I have been experiencing a number of symptoms recently, that I never had before in my life. All of a sudden about 2 weeks ago, a strange kind of headache came on that I never had before, this went away the following day and since then I have developed eye pain and burning sensation which is always there. The eyes sometimes water, other times it feels dry. The headaches then returned about 9 days ago and it is causing me major concerns. I am usually a very alert and high mental energy person, but I am now not able to concentrate or follow the same kind of high intensity work I normally do. In fact given the chance I would rather just rest which is totally against my character. I have had an eye test and my vision is fine, although my far vision is superior to my near vision. I am in my mid 40s and work in front of PC for the best part of a working day. Whilst I can tolerate the eye dryness and burning, the eye pain and headaches are quite debilitating. I have seen my GP and he has referred me to a neurologist, but with the UK 's NHS system, that appointment could be some time away. Any idea what this could be and what I need to do to help myself.

Dr. Virginia Donati's response:

Hello Tony,
I am sorry that you are suffering with these debilitating symptoms. The burning and tearing sound like symptoms of dry eye. You may be able to find some relief from those particular symptoms with an artificial tear used as needed. As for the more major concern of the headaches and altered moods, I certainly agree with your GP about the need for a neurology consultation. I really wouldn’t be able to hazard a guess as to the cause of the problem without examining your eyes. The headaches may turn out to be not eye-related at all! I would advise you, however, that if your headaches are increasing in frequency, duration, or severity, that you seek emergent care from your family doctor or a hospital.

I hope you are feeling better soon,
Dr. Donati

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