Eye pain that does not go away with rinsing and a short period of rest could be a symptom of a serious condition, especially if it is accompanied by swelling or blurred vision. Soft tissues around the eye typically swell in response to irritation or trauma. Matters regarding eye health should always be referred to an ophthalmologist or other medical professional.
Stye
A self-limiting infection in glands lining the eyelid's edge, a stye causes pain, swelling and a pimple-like lesion. The medical term for a stye is hordeolum. Staphylococcus aureus is the most common pathogen that produces styes. All About Vision suggests the use of warm wet compresses, applied for 15 minutes four times a day, to speed healing of this common condition. Spreading germs from the nose to the eyes probably causes the development of styes in children, but bacteria may also be transferred from contaminated towels or make-up applicators. Occasionally, the infection forms inside the eyelid, a situation that requires medical care.
Injury
The transparent cornea covers the eye. Superficial corneal abrasions may be caused by the overuse of poorly fitted contact lenses, dust, or ultraviolet radiation exposure, such as from the sun. Symptoms of corneal injury include eye pain, swollen eyelids, a gritty feeling in the eyes and blurred vision. Serious penetrating injuries to the cornea could lead to visual impairment. Corneal injuries of any type should be treated to prevent infection.
Fuch's Dystrophy
An inherited eye disease, Fuch's dystrophy alters the structure and function of the cornea, causing swelling, pain and loss of vision. This disorder affects women more frequently than men. It generally occurs after the age of 40 and usually affects both eyes. According to the Ohio Lions Eye Research Foundation, Fuch's dystrophy progresses slowly, typically in the span of 25 years. It can be treated with corneal transplants.
Shingles
The herpes zoster virus causes chickenpox. In adults who have had chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in nerve fibers near the surface of the skin. Under conditions that compromise the immune system, such as stress or ill health, the virus may become active, causing painful sores, or shingles, to erupt along nerve pathways. Shingles on the face can invade the eyes, causing redness, swollen eyelids and pain. Antiviral and steroid medications may prevent this disorder, known as herpes zoster opthalmicus, from leaving scars that impair vision. Having shingles in the eye can also lead to the development of glaucoma, a disease that causes blindness if left untreated.
