Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a respiratory illness caused by viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. It causes a range of widespread bodily symptoms that can appear suddenly. While aches, fever, and fatigue are common, eye pain is also a recognized symptom, often contributing to overall discomfort.
How the Flu Causes Eye Pain
The discomfort in the eyes during a flu infection stems from several physiological responses. The immune system’s widespread inflammatory response to the virus can affect tissues throughout the body, including those surrounding the eyes. This systemic inflammation contributes to a general feeling of soreness and pressure in the eyes.
The flu commonly causes muscle aches, which can extend to the muscles around and behind the eyes. These extraocular muscles, responsible for eye movement, can become sore, leading to pain that intensifies when moving the eyes. Individuals may notice this discomfort particularly when looking in different directions.
Sinus congestion, a frequent flu symptom, also plays a role in eye pain. Inflamed or blocked sinuses can exert pressure on the eye sockets, resulting in referred pain felt in or around the eyes. This pressure can manifest as a dull ache or throbbing sensation. A high body temperature, or fever, can also contribute to generalized discomfort and heightened sensitivity, intensifying existing eye pain.
Other Flu-Related Eye Symptoms
Beyond pain, individuals experiencing the flu may notice other eye symptoms. Light sensitivity, or photophobia, is common, making bright environments uncomfortable. This sensitivity can arise from inflammation or the general malaise associated with the illness.
Excessive tearing, or watery eyes, is another frequent symptom during a flu infection. This can result from irritation caused by the virus itself or the associated inflammatory processes. Redness or irritation in the eyes may also be observed, sometimes indicative of conjunctivitis.
Fatigue, a characteristic symptom of the flu, can also manifest as tired and strained eyes. The body’s energy is directed towards fighting the infection, which can leave the eyes feeling heavy and difficult to focus.
When to Seek Medical Care
While eye symptoms are common during the flu, certain signs warrant prompt medical attention. If eye pain becomes severe, does not improve as other flu symptoms recede, or worsens significantly, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. This could indicate a complication beyond typical flu discomfort.
Any changes in vision, such as blurriness, double vision, or a decrease in visual clarity, should be evaluated by a doctor. New or unusual eye symptoms, including pus-like discharge, intense redness, or swelling around the eye, also signal a need for medical assessment.
Pain localized to only one eye, particularly if accompanied by other concerning symptoms, should also prompt a medical visit. Individuals with pre-existing eye conditions or compromised immune systems should be more vigilant about eye symptoms during a flu infection.