Pain above the eyebrow is a common experience with various potential causes. This discomfort can range from a mild ache to severe, throbbing sensations. Its specific characteristics often provide clues about its origin.
Common Reasons for Pain Above the Eyebrow
Tension headaches often cause pain above the eyebrow. These headaches typically cause mild to moderate pain on both sides of the head, often described as a tight band or pressure across the forehead, including the eyebrow area. Discomfort may extend to the temples and neck, and while light or sound sensitivity can occur, nausea is usually absent. Tension headaches can last from 30 minutes to several days.
Sinus headaches are another common cause of pain in this region, resulting from inflammation of the nasal cavities, known as sinusitis. This creates facial pressure, leading to a dull ache around the eyebrows, forehead, cheeks, and nose. Bending forward or lying down often intensifies the pain, which can be constant and affect one or both sides of the head. Associated symptoms include a blocked or stuffy nose, cough, and thick, discolored mucus.
Migraines can cause significant pain around the eyebrows, eyes, and temples. They typically involve intense, throbbing pain, often on one side of the head, lasting from four hours to three days. Sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, and vomiting are common accompanying symptoms. The pain may worsen with movement, and some individuals experience an aura, such as visual disturbances, before the headache begins.
Cluster headaches are characterized by severe, sharp, burning, or piercing pain, usually around or behind one eye, which can spread to the eyebrow or temple. These attacks typically last 15 minutes to three hours, occurring multiple times daily for weeks or months, followed by pain-free periods. Accompanying symptoms often include a red, watery eye, a drooping eyelid, a smaller pupil, a runny or stuffy nose, and facial sweating on the affected side.
Eye strain, often resulting from prolonged focus on tasks like reading or computer work, can lead to discomfort above the eyebrows. This type of pain often feels like an ache or pressure near or behind the eyes. Eye strain symptoms can include tired, sore, or itchy eyes, blurred or double vision, and a pulling sensation around the eyes. Regular breaks and proper lighting can help alleviate these symptoms.
Other Potential Causes
Temporal arteritis, also known as giant cell arteritis, involves inflammation of the arteries, particularly those on the side of the head. This condition typically affects individuals over 50, causing a persistent, severe headache, often in the temples, extending to the eyebrow area. Associated symptoms can include jaw pain during chewing, scalp tenderness, and vision problems such as blurred vision or temporary vision loss.
Trigeminal neuralgia is characterized by sudden, sharp, shooting facial pain, often described as an electric shock. While it commonly affects the lower face and jaw, it can also cause intense pain around the nose and above the eye, including the forehead and eyebrow. The pain usually affects one side of the face and can be triggered by routine actions like talking, chewing, or even a light touch.
Referred pain from dental issues can sometimes manifest as discomfort in the eyebrow region. Problems with teeth or the jaw can send pain signals to other facial areas, including the forehead and around the eyes. Dental infections or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can be underlying factors.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
While many instances of pain above the eyebrow are not serious, certain symptoms warrant medical evaluation. Seek medical attention if the pain is sudden and severe, often described as a “thunderclap” headache. Pain accompanied by fever, a stiff neck, a rash, or confusion also requires urgent medical care.
Consult a doctor if pain occurs after a head injury, even if minor. Neurological symptoms such as weakness, numbness, changes in vision, or difficulty speaking alongside the eyebrow pain also warrant concern. If the pain progressively worsens, does not improve with self-care, or if new onset occurs in older adults, especially with scalp tenderness or vision problems, medical advice is recommended.
Relief and Prevention Strategies
For common causes of pain above the eyebrow, several self-care strategies can offer relief and prevent recurrence. Resting in a quiet, dark room can alleviate discomfort, especially for headaches sensitive to light and sound. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage mild to moderate pain.
Applying warm or cold compresses to the forehead or affected area can provide relief by relaxing muscles or reducing inflammation. Adequate hydration by drinking plenty of water is beneficial, as dehydration can contribute to headaches. Practicing stress management techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or gentle stretching can reduce muscle tension that often triggers pain.
For eye strain, adjusting ergonomics for computer work or reading is important, including proper lighting and regular breaks using the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds). Identifying and avoiding personal triggers, such as certain foods, strong smells, or lack of sleep, can prevent future episodes.