---
title: What causes sharp pain?
description: "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,…"
url: "https://bluefinvision.com/knowledge-base/topics/symptoms-signs/what-causes-sharp-pain/"
updated: "2025-12-12"
category: "Symptoms & Signs"
---

# What causes sharp pain?

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