What causes pain in the facial muscles near the eye socket?

Generally, pain in the facial area near the eye socket may be caused by eye strain, eye compression, supraorbital neuralgia, blepharitis, or referred pain from sinusitis. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Eye Strain

Prolonged screen time or staying up late can cause sustained tension and spasms in the eye muscles, leading to pain that radiates to surrounding tissues. To relieve this, reduce screen time, take a 5-minute break every 40 minutes of screen use, look into the distance to relax the eyes, ensure 7–8 hours of sleep per night, and apply a warm towel to the eyes for 10 minutes.

2. Eye Compression

Pain can result from pressure on the eyes during sleep (e.g., lying face down), wearing overly tight glasses, or mask straps pressing on the eye area, all of which impair local blood circulation. Adjust sleeping posture to supine or side-lying, switch to more comfortable and looser-fitting glasses and masks, and gently massage the area around the eye sockets to improve circulation.

3. Supraorbital Neuralgia

Inflammation of the supraorbital nerve triggered by cold exposure or fatigue can cause sharp, stabbing pain in the upper part of the eye socket. Medications such as vitamin B1 tablets, mecobalamin tablets, and ibuprofen tablets may be used under medical guidance. Avoid direct exposure of the face to cold wind and ensure adequate rest.

4. Blepharitis

Inflammation of the eyelids due to bacterial infection or excessive oil secretion can spread to surrounding tissues, causing pain, often accompanied by redness, swelling, and flaking of the eyelids. Under a doctor's supervision, treatments may include levofloxacin eye drops, erythromycin eye ointment, or tobramycin eye drops. Clean the eyelids daily with warm water.

5. Referred Pain from Sinusitis

The sinuses are adjacent to the eye sockets; when inflamed, sinus infections can stimulate nerves, causing pain to radiate around the eye area, often accompanied by nasal congestion and runny nose. Treatment under medical guidance may include cefuroxime axetil tablets, mometasone furoate nasal spray, and eucalyptus citronellal enteric soft capsules. Keep nasal passages clear and avoid exposure to dust and other irritants.

In daily life, practice proper eye care and avoid staying up late; maintain eye hygiene and refrain from rubbing the eyes; protect the face from cold to prevent exposure to chilling stimuli; promptly address nasal congestion to prevent worsening of sinus inflammation.