If you start feeling pain in your eyes, it might be time to visit an eye doctor. When your eyes become painful, there is most likely some type of problem that is causing this to happen. The problem might be something minor, but there is also a chance that there is a major problem. A visit to an optometrist will reveal what is causing this, and while you are there you will also find out how the problem needs to be treated. Here are three common causes of eye pain.

Corneal Abrasions

A corneal abrasion occurs when the outer part of the eye gets scratched. This part is called the cornea and is there to protect your eye. This type of pain is usually easy to identify, because you will probably remember something scratching your eye. A corneal abrasion also typically happens to one eye only and not both.

Treatment for an abrasion often involves the use of medicated eye drops. These eye drops are typically made of antibiotics, and using them will help stop any infection that may be present. They will also keep the eye clean and help the wound heal faster.

Corneal Ulcer

If you did not experience a wound to your eye, the pain you are feeling might be caused by a corneal ulcer, which is a sore on the cornea. This can occur from an infection or from trauma, and it can lead to blindness if it is not treated properly.

An optometrist may treat this condition with eye drops and oral medication. If these methods do not clear up the problem, you may need to have a surgical operation to remove the ulcer from the eye.

Dry Eye

Dry eye is a condition when your eyes are too dry. This condition can irritate the eyes and can cause pain. It can also cause blurry vision, sensitivity to light, and mucus formation around the eyes. In most cases, dry eye is not a serious condition, and it can easily be treated with eye drops.

If using artificial tears is not enough to provide the relief you need, your optometrist could give you antibiotics, which will help reduce the inflammation in your eyes. This will bring relief and could help stop the pain completely.

Eye pain is not always a sign of a serious problem, but it can be. The best thing you can do to avoid further problems with your eyes is to visit an eye doctor.