Eye pain when blinking—what could be causing it?

While there are plenty of reasons your eyes may hurt, there aren’t very many reasons your eye would hurt specifically when you blink, or hurt worse when you blink. Discover what those reasons might be, and why you should see your eye doctor immediately if you’re currently experiencing eye pain when blinking.

Published on September 1, 2025

Possible causes of eye pain when blinking

Something in your eye?

Your cornea is the clear, front part of your eye, and it is very sensitive—if something is touching, rubbing, or scratching it, you feel it. If you’re experiencing eye pain only when you blink and not when your eye is open, something might be rubbing against your cornea every time your eyelid moves. This could be caused by a “foreign body” either on your eye, stuck to the inside of your eyelid, or embedded in your eyelid, like a speck of dust, a grain of sand, or an eyelash that has somehow found its way where it shouldn’t be.

Your cornea may be scratched

Another reason your eye may hurt when you blink is if your cornea is scratched, though it’s important to note that in this situation, it’s not likely that your eye would hurt only when you blink. It may hurt worse when you blink, but it will likely hurt even when your eye is open. You may not have noticed what caused it because corneal abrasions (scratched corneas) can happen simply by rubbing your eyes or not being careful when you apply makeup. In addition to pain, you may experience watery eyes, blurry vision, and sensitivity to light.

Examples of eye pain felt with or without blinking

Some sources of eye pain experienced when blinking can be felt whether or not your eyelid moves. This may include:

Dry eye

When your eyes don't make enough tears or your tears evaporate too quickly, you may feel dryness and irritation. Prolonged screen time or low humidity can contribute to the feeling of eye dryness.

Allergic Reactions

Things like pollen, dust mites, and pet dander can cause inflammation in the eyes, leading to redness and a burning sensation. This inflammation can heighten the discomfort you experience whenever you blink. You may also experience itchiness, watery eyes, and swelling.

Infections

Conditions like conjunctivitis (pink eye) and blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids) can cause significant eye discomfort. These infections may lead to red, swollen eyelids and discomfort while blinking. It’s common for these conditions to be accompanied by discharge, itchiness, or increased tearing, which might warrant a doctor's visit.

Headaches

Experiencing headaches alongside eye pain may indicate conditions like cluster headaches or migraines. These conditions can make you more sensitive to things light, sound, or movement.

Common Causes of Eye Pain

Eye pain when blinking? See your eye doctor.

If you’re experiencing pain specifically when you blink it’s important to see your eye doctor as soon as you can to assess what’s causing the pain and prescribe the right treatment. If your cornea is scratched, they may prescribe antibiotic eye drops, pain management, and/or pressure patching to help protect the eye while it heals. If you’re feeling eye pain whether or not your eyelid is moving, it’s still a good idea to get in touch with your eye doctor if you’re concerned or if the pain is severed and/or persistent.

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FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What should I do if my eye hurts when I blink?

If you notice pain or discomfort while blinking, see your eye doctor as soon as you can, as this may indicate that you have or had something scratching against your cornea.

Could sitting too close to the TV hurt my eyes?

Sitting too close to screens can lead to eye strain and discomfort, felt with or without eyelid movement. To help prevent discomfort, maintain a comfortable distance from screens, and take regular breaks to rest your eyes.

How do I know if my pain is serious?

Only your eye doctor can assess whether pain is serious, so if you’re experiencing eye pain that is severe, persistent, or just simply concerning, reach out to your eye doctor as soon as you can.

Can dry eyes cause pain when blinking?

Dry eyes can lead to discomfort, irritation, or pain, but it’s not typically felt only when blinking. Ask your eye doctor if over-the-counter solutions like artificial tears would be right for you. They can also discuss lifestyle factors that might be contributing to your condition.

Does stress contribute to eye pain?

Yes, stress may lead to increased eye strain and discomfort. Prolonged screen time may also exacerbate sensations of tiredness and irritation in your eyes. It may be helpful to incorporate regular breaks, practice relaxation techniques, and ensure your workspace is ergonomically friendly as part of your routine to help manage eye discomfort stemming from stress.