Definitions

Eye pain

When to make a doctor’s appointment

Make an appointment to see a doctor if:

• Discomfort or visual changes persist or worsen
• Recent eye surgery

Self-care

Apply a cool or warm compress to the eye, whichever feels better. Over-the-counter artificial tear eyedrops may soothe the eye, but avoid drops that clear redness.

When to seek immediate medical care

See a doctor immediately if:

• Severe pain and vision changes, such as new-onset blurriness
• Seeing halos around lights
• Nausea, vomiting, or headache
• Fever
• Difficulty moving or shutting eye

When to make a doctor's appointment

Make an appointment to see a doctor if:

• Discomfort or visual changes persist or worsen
• Recent eye surgery