What causes headache and red eyes?
Mar 03, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Cui Xin
Introduction
Headache and red eyes are symptoms caused by inflammatory infections or “excess internal heat” (a traditional Chinese medicine concept). Conjunctivitis or keratitis, for instance, commonly present with eye redness and swelling, and may also be accompanied by headache. Similarly, headache and red eyes can occur during episodes of “excess internal heat.”
Headache and chest tightness are common health issues encountered in daily life. Such symptoms undoubtedly interfere with normal work and study. Although headache is not a life-threatening condition, the pain it causes can be truly debilitating. Many people assume headaches are harmless and believe taking over-the-counter pain relievers is sufficient—this approach is incorrect, as our bodies belong to us and deserve proper care.
What Causes Headache Accompanied by Red Eyes?
Headache with red eyes typically results from inflammatory infections or excessive internal heat (“fire” in Traditional Chinese Medicine [TCM] terminology). Conditions such as conjunctivitis or keratitis often cause eye redness and swelling, which may concurrently trigger headache. Similarly, excessive internal heat can also produce these symptoms.
Upon developing these symptoms, one should first increase intake of warm water. Additionally, medications that clear heat, detoxify, and drain fire may be used for symptomatic treatment—for example, Niuhuang Jiedu Pian (Bezoar Detoxifying Tablets) or Pudilan Xiaoyan Oral Liquid. If eye redness and swelling are severe, topical treatments such as erythromycin ointment or ofloxacin eye drops may help alleviate symptoms. Adequate rest is essential during this period, and spicy or stimulating foods should be avoided, as they may exacerbate symptoms.
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine: “The head is the meeting point of all Yang channels, holding the highest functional importance; the brain is the residence of the primordial spirit, possessing the most refined and responsive functions.” The essence and blood from the five zang organs and the clear Yang Qi from the six fu organs all ascend to nourish the head. Internally, the five zang and six fu organs; externally, the meridians—all coordinate to govern the entire body. When external pathogenic factors such as wind-cold invade the vertex (top of the head), the flow of Qi in the meridians becomes obstructed and fails to ascend smoothly, resulting in headache. Alternatively, internal imbalances—including deficiency of vital substances (Qi, Blood, Yin, or Essence), blood stasis, phlegm-damp obstruction, or emotional disturbances leading to hyperactivity of Liver-Yang—may also cause headache.
We hope the above information proves helpful. Wishing you good health and happiness!
