How to Get Rid of a Migraine Behind the Eye

A migraine behind the eye can be especially disruptive. The pain is often sharp, throbbing, or pressure-like, and it may affect one or both eyes. For many people, this type of migraine interferes with work, screen use, and everyday activities. While migraines have multiple triggers, eye-related factors are often overlooked - and addressing them can make a meaningful difference.

Below, we’ll explore common causes of migraines behind the eye, effective relief strategies, and why comprehensive eye exams play an essential role in long-term migraine management.

What Causes a Migraine Behind the Eye?

Migraines behind the eye are often associated with tension, nerve sensitivity, or visual strain. Common contributors include:

• Uncorrected vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism

• Digital eye strain from prolonged screen use without proper breaks

• Eye muscle imbalance or focusing issues that force the eyes to work harder

• Dry eye syndrome, which can trigger inflammation and discomfort

• Light sensitivity, including glare from screens or overhead lighting

• Sinus pressure, which can radiate pain behind the eye

Because these triggers frequently overlap, identifying the root cause is key to lasting relief.

Immediate Ways to Relieve Migraine Pain Behind the Eye

While migraines often require a multifaceted approach, these strategies may help reduce discomfort:

Rest Your Eyes - Taking a break from screens and resting in a dark, quiet room can ease light sensitivity and reduce eye strain.

Apply Cold or Warm Compresses - A cold compress can help numb pain and reduce inflammation, while a warm compress may relax surrounding muscles and relieve sinus pressure.

Stay Hydrated - Dehydration is a common migraine trigger. Drinking water throughout the day can help prevent headaches from worsening.

Adjust Lighting - Reduce glare by dimming screens, using anti-glare filters, and avoiding harsh overhead lighting when possible.

Practice the 20-20-20 Rule - Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to reduce eye fatigue during screen use.

The Role of Vision in Migraines Behind the Eye

One of the most common - and treatable - causes of migraines behind the eye is undiagnosed or undercorrected vision issues. When your eyes struggle to focus or work together, the surrounding muscles and nerves become overworked, often leading to headaches and migraines.

Even small prescription changes or subtle eye alignment problems can trigger recurring pain. Many patients are surprised to learn that their migraines improve significantly after addressing vision-related strain.

Why Comprehensive Eye Exams Matter

Comprehensive eye exams do far more than check how clearly you see. They evaluate how your eyes function together, how well they focus, and whether there are underlying conditions contributing to headaches or migraines.

During a comprehensive eye exam, your eye doctor can:

• Detect uncorrected refractive errors

• Identify eye muscle or focusing problems

• Evaluate screen-related eye strain

• Assess dry eye and inflammation

• Recommend corrective lenses or specialty eyewear

• Suggest lifestyle or visual habit changes to reduce strain

For patients experiencing frequent migraines behind the eye, these exams are often a critical step toward long-term relief - not just symptom management.

When to Seek Professional Care

If migraines behind the eye are frequent, worsening, or interfering with daily life, it’s important to seek professional evaluation. Persistent eye pain should never be ignored, especially if accompanied by visual changes, light sensitivity, or nausea.

An eye exam can help determine whether your migraines are vision-related or if further medical referral is needed.

Relief Starts With Your Eyes - Book Your Comprehensive Eye Exam Today

Migraines behind the eye can be frustrating and debilitating, but relief is possible. From reducing screen strain and improving visual habits to identifying underlying eye conditions, addressing eye health plays a crucial role in migraine management. Comprehensive eye exams offer valuable insight into causes that often go unnoticed and can provide long-term solutions rather than temporary fixes.

If you’re experiencing recurring migraines behind the eye, schedule a comprehensive eye exam at 20/20 EyeVenue. Visit our office in Westminster or Strasburg, Colorado, or call (720) 740-0400 to book an appointment today.