Sharp eye pain is sudden, intense, and often localised. It may arise from the ocular surface, deeper structures, or surrounding tissues.
Ocular Causes
Corneal abrasions, foreign bodies, and penetrating injuries are frequent sources of stabbing pain. Acute angle-closure glaucoma, scleritis, and severe keratitis can also cause sharp or deep pain, sometimes with headache and nausea.
- Surface injuries usually worsen with blinking or eye movement
- Pain with a red, hard eye and halos around lights suggests acute glaucoma
- Scleritis produces severe, boring pain that may disturb sleep
- Cluster headaches and neuralgias can refer sharp pain around the eye
Urgency
Sudden sharp pain, especially with vision loss, redness, trauma, or chemical exposure, requires immediate emergency care. Early treatment prevents permanent damage.
- Do not rub or apply pressure to a painful injured eye
- Chemical injuries need immediate irrigation before assessment
- Contact lens wearers should remove lenses promptly and seek review
- Systemic symptoms guide investigation for inflammatory or neurological causes
