What causes pressure behind the eyes?

There are several potential causes of pressure behind the eyes, including:

1. Glaucoma: Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, which transmits visual information from the eye to the brain. Increased pressure within the eye (intraocular pressure) is a major risk factor for glaucoma.

2. Orbital cellulitis: Orbital cellulitis is an infection of the tissues surrounding the eye, including the muscles, fat, and connective tissue. It can cause inflammation, swelling, and pressure behind the eyes.

3. Sinusitis: Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinuses, which are air-filled cavities located near the nasal passages and behind the eyes. When the sinuses become inflamed, they can cause pressure and pain in the face and around the eyes.

4. Migraines: Migraines are severe headaches that can be accompanied by a variety of symptoms, including pressure behind the eyes.

5. Corneal abrasions: Corneal abrasions are scratches on the clear outer layer of the eye (cornea). They can cause pain, irritation, and pressure behind the eyes.

6. Uveitis: Uveitis is inflammation of the uvea, which is the middle layer of the eye. It can cause pain, redness, blurred vision, and pressure behind the eyes.

7. Giant cell arteritis: Giant cell arteritis is a rare condition that causes inflammation of the arteries, including those that supply blood to the head and eyes. It can cause headaches, jaw pain, and pressure behind the eyes.

8. Brain tumors: In rare cases, pressure behind the eyes can be a symptom of a brain tumor, especially if it is located near the optic nerve or the pituitary gland.

If you are experiencing pressure behind the eyes, it is important to see an eye doctor for evaluation and diagnosis, especially if the pressure is accompanied by other symptoms such as pain, vision changes, or headaches.