Name: Insight Vision Center Optometry
Address: 3151 Airway Ave. Ste. M3, Costa Mesa, CA, 92626, United States
Telephone: (714) 486-3315
Price range: Make An Appointment

What Is the Link Between Dry Eye and Migraines?

Dry eye occurs when you don’t have sufficient quality tears to sustain and keep your eyes moist. This eye condition is a common and persistent problem, especially in older adults. One complication that comes with dry eye is migraines.

Dry Eye Syndrome and Migraines

Studies suggest that people with dry eye syndrome may suffer from migraines that are longer-lasting and more painful. According to a study published in the Canadian Journal of Ophthalmology, people who had more migraines had a higher salt content in their tears. The higher salt content in tears can cause further drying.

In a 2017 study of almost a million U.S. veterans, researchers found that dry eye is more common in older people with chronic pain conditions than those without. Researchers also discovered that the frequency of dry eye increases with the number of chronic pain conditions. This suggests that dry eyes can indicate the presence of a chronic pain condition, such as migraine, temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD), chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or facial, neck or back pain.

Possible Shared Mechanisms

There are different theories about what causes dry eye syndrome and migraine. Eye doctors and experts believe that these two conditions may have shared mechanisms. For instance, inflammatory processes appear to be contributing to both dry eye and migraines.

Central sensitization is when your central nervous system overreacts to certain stimuli, such as sound, light, noise or touch. It can cause serious pain and lower pain tolerance. Central sensitization is associated with migraines and dry eyes. Genetics also seems to play a role in these two conditions. Dry eye syndrome has been genetically linked to IBS, chronic pelvic pain and fibromyalgia.

At Insight Vision Center Optometry, we’re happy to help with your family’s eye care needs. We specialize in different therapies, including scleral lenses, vision therapy and more. Give us a call at (714) 486-3315, or complete our contact form to learn more about our services. We assist patients in Newport and Costa Mesa, CA.

Insight Vision Center Optometry is a proud member of Vision Source, the premier network of private practice optometrists.

Our Testimonials

Real experiences from clients who’ve seen our expertise—discover what our patients have to say.

Dr. Chen and the staff are very friendly and professional and can provide patients with sincere service and advice.

Elise Fu

Insight Vision Center Optometry has truly transformed my eyecare experience over the past year. Under the expert care of Dr. Chen, Dr. Schramm, Dr. Lam, and Dr. Mai, I've received unparalleled attention and personalized service. Their commitment to excellence extends beyond the doctors to the outstanding admin and tech team who ensure a seamless and efficient visit every time.

The level of expertise, professionalism, and genuine care exhibited by the entire staff sets Insight Vision Center Optometry apart. From thorough examinations to comprehensive explanations of my eye health, they have created an atmosphere of trust and confidence. It's not just about eye care; it's about an extraordinary commitment to the well-being of their patients.

I wholeheartedly recommend Insight Vision Center Optometry to everyone seeking top-notch optometric services. It's more than an eye clinic; it's a place where your vision is valued, and your experience is exceptional. This team has undoubtedly set the standard for excellence in eyecare.

Nathaniel Choi

Dr. Mai and the entire personnel are amazing! Extremely polite, kind and professional. In addition, I can now see 20/20!!! Thank you, thank you all

Franchezka 777

Dr. Schramm is stellar. He really cares about his patients. Great staff. Scleral lenses are life changing.

Kevin W

My first eye exam in fifteen years. I am so thankful that I found Insight Vision Center. Dr. Lam and staff made me feel like a welcome guest. My eye exam revealed very minor blurriness and Dr. Lam did not pressure me into purchasing eyewear for a condition not necessitating glasses… yet. Maybe next year? I am getting older. They took my VSP insurance. Yay!

Scott H.

Dr. Lam and staff are amazing. Every phone call or interaction is friendly. You can feel the smiles and joy over whatever mode of communication you are interacting with them. Dr. Lam is very knowledgeable and helps you to better understand everything that is going on with your eyes. She made me aware of potential problems I may have with my eyes and walked me through every step of the process. She helped me understand the various factors that could be causing my vision to be a little impaired and followed up with me as I had to see an ophthalmologist. Great team, great office.

Virgilio S.