By Dr. Deborah Oparaji (OD)
Headaches are a common experience with many possible causes—ranging from stress and dehydration to more specific issues like uncorrected vision problems. At SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikoyi, our expert optometrists often see patients whose persistent headaches are linked to eye strain or undiagnosed visual issues. Understanding the type and cause of your headache can help you manage symptoms and know when professional eye care is necessary.
What is a Headache?
A headache is a sensation of pain or pressure in the head, forehead, temples, or around the eyes. It may feel dull, sharp, throbbing, or constant—and can affect one or both sides of the head. If your headache occurs frequently, particularly after using a screen or reading, it's time to consult an optometrist for a detailed eye examination.
Common Causes of Headaches
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Eyesight problems (asthenopia)
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Uncorrected refractive errors (myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism)
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Prolonged screen time (especially from digital devices)
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Fatigue or stress
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Dehydration or missed meals
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Cold, flu, or sinus congestion
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Alcohol use
Types of Headaches
1. Tension Headaches
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Most common type
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Pressure-like pain across the forehead or sides
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Often stress or posture-related
2. Migraine Headaches
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Intense, throbbing pain, usually one-sided
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May include nausea, light/sound sensitivity, visual disturbances
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Often triggered by environmental or dietary factors
3. Cluster Headaches
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Sharp, burning pain around one eye
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Short duration but recur multiple times daily
4. New Daily Persistent Headaches (NDPH)
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Sudden onset
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Persist daily for months or years
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Can mimic tension or migraine symptoms
Other Headache Types
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Hormonal (linked to menstrual cycles or menopause)
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Sinus headaches (due to nasal congestion)
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Dehydration headaches
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Eye strain headaches – often seen by our optometrists at SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikoyi
When Headaches Signal an Eye Problem
If you frequently experience headaches:
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Around or behind the eyes
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After reading or screen time
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While focusing on close work
You might be suffering from asthenopia or uncorrected refractive errors.
This is a clear sign to visit an optometrist at SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikoyi for a comprehensive eye exam. We’ll assess your vision, screen for eye diseases, and ensure your glasses or contact lens prescription is accurate and up to date.
Tips for Managing Headaches
- Stay hydrated
- Take regular screen breaks (20-20-20 rule: every 20 mins, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds)
- Ensure proper lighting when reading or working
- Don’t skip meals
- Rest—but avoid excessive sleep
When to See a Professional
Seek immediate care at SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikoyi if you experience:
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Headaches lasting more than 3 days
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Visual changes (blur, double vision, halos)
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Pain around the eyes or forehead
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Headaches after extended screen use
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No relief from OTC pain medications
FAQs
Q: Can eye problems really cause headaches?
A: Yes. Uncorrected vision, astigmatism, and screen strain are all common triggers seen by our optometrists.
Q: Should I visit SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikoyi for a headache?
A: Absolutely—especially if your headaches are recurring and centered near the eyes or occur during visual tasks.
Q: How do I know if I need new glasses?
A: If you squint, struggle to focus, or get headaches after screen time, you may need a new prescription.
Q: Can digital screens make headaches worse?
A: Yes. Our optometrists in Ikoyi recommend blue light filters and regular screen breaks to reduce visual stress.
📍Contact Information SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikoyi
Specsmart Ikoyi – Optometrist & Eye Care
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Address: Ikoyi Plaza, Keffi Street, Ikoyi.
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Phone: 0701 820 7486
📍Learn More
For expert headache and eye care, book your appointment with Specsmart Ikoyi—your trusted optometrist in Lagos