A few weeks ago, I experienced a persistent headache that refused to go away. It started out as a dull ache behind my eyes and was worse each time I gazed at my laptop or phone. Hours spent looking at the screens left me seeing blurry visions and throbbing temples. I suspected it was due to stress, but the eye exam said it was from uncorrected vision and digital eye strain. The optometrist suggested new glasses and the 20-20-20 rule. It was a wake-up call because within days of wearing the right prescription and taking frequent screen breaks, the headaches subsided.

Headaches are a common complaint, varying from mild annoyance to debilitating pain interfering with daily activities. While stress, dehydration, and underlying health conditions often dominate the conversation about headache triggers, eye-related issues can also be a significant cause. Understanding the connection between headaches and eye health is essential for proper diagnosis and management.

The eyes are delicate organs working continuously to understand the world. Any form of stress, misalignment, or an existing condition of the eye can cause irritation. According to Dr. Neeraj Sanduja, MBBS, MS, Ophthalmologist, and Eye Surgeon, "Headaches from eye conditions usually present with distinct characteristics, like temple or forehead pain, even behind the eyes, often after tasks requiring long-term concentration of the gaze."

This discomfort can often radiate to surrounding areas, such as the temples or forehead, manifesting as headaches. These are known as ocular headaches, which are distinct from migraines or tension headaches but can often feel similar.

Common Eye-Related Causes of Headaches

1. Eye Strain (Asthenopia)

Prolonged activities such as reading, watching computer screens, or driving are very focused activities. The muscles used in these functions are overused, which in turn often gives a dull ache around the eyes or temples-a common headache type known as eye strain. Not functionally disabling, this kind of headache has become increasingly more common in our digital age. "Eye strain, while uncomfortable, is often manageable with proper rest and corrective measures," says Dr. Sanduja.

2. Uncorrected Vision Problems

Conditions like myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism make the eyes work harder to focus. Extra effort to have clear vision results in headaches, especially after performing long tasks such as reading or screen usage.

3. Outdated or Incorrect Eyewear Prescriptions

Using glasses or contact lenses with an outdated or incorrect prescription can cause headaches. Regular eye checkups are essential to ensure that your prescription aligns with your current vision needs.

4. Computer Vision Syndrome (Digital Eye Strain)

With increased screen time, digital eye strain has emerged as the primary cause of headaches. This condition is often accompanied by other symptoms, including dry eyes, blurred vision, and neck pain. Inadequate breaks during screen use increase the strain on the eyes, leading to headaches.

5. Glaucoma

This condition presents with increased intraocular pressure. The patient suffers from intense headache, especially in the eyes, and sometimes, it is associated with nausea and vomiting or by the presence of halos in the lights. Early detection and intervention help prevent vision loss.

6. Eye Muscle Imbalance (Binocular Vision Dysfunction)

Even the slightest misalignment of the eyes can cause strain as the muscles work to keep things in focus. The result is a common condition called binocular vision dysfunction, often bringing on headaches and an inability to concentrate.

7. Inflammatory Eye Disorders

Inflammatory disorders like uveitis or optic neuritis may bring about severe headaches, usually with additional symptoms, including redness, photophobia, or a change in vision.

What is Eye Strain and Why Does It Matter?

Not every headache is ocular in etiology, and some symptoms differentiate ocular headache from others. You should look for medical consultation if:

• The headache improves or worsens as time passes on.
• Associated symptoms include double vision, pain in the eye, or even redness.
• Nausea, sensitivity to light, or seeing halos around lights occurs with the headache.
• You haven't had a comprehensive eye exam in more than a year.

An eye examination may determine if the headaches are indeed related to some vision problem. In the process, an ophthalmologist may check the eyes' nerves and inspect the optic discs to dismiss conditions such as increased intraocular pressure. Dr. Sanduja further advises, "For most individuals, eye strain-related headaches can be alleviated by addressing refractive errors with proper lenses or improving visual ergonomics."

In some instances, referred pain may account for the relationship between headaches and eye discomfort: pain can be felt in one location even though it is caused by an injury or condition elsewhere. A complete assessment will determine the cause.

How to Manage Eye-Related Headaches

- Corrective lenses for nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism can help relieve headaches caused by uncorrected vision problems.

- Adopt the 20-20-20 rule: focus on something that is 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes.

- For more critical conditions such as glaucoma or inflammatory conditions, treatment includes medication, lifestyle adjustments, or even surgery.

• Take breaks regularly when using your screen.
• Always ensure proper lighting when reading or working.
• Stay hydrated to help keep your eyes healthy.

Not all headaches associated with the eyes are caused by vision problems. Referred pain can originate from tension headaches or sinus infections, radiating discomfort to the eyes. This makes professional evaluation critical in determining the true cause.

While headaches can stem from a variety of causes, eye-related issues are often overlooked. If you experience frequent headaches with accompanying eye symptoms, consulting an ophthalmologist is essential. Dr. Sanduja concludes, "Regular eye checkups are not just about vision—they are vital for overall health. Addressing eye-related headaches can significantly improve quality of life and well-being."Regular eye checkups not only protect your vision but also help identify potential triggers for your headaches.

Dr Neeraj Sanduja is a practising Ophthalmologist and Eye Surgeon at Viaan Eye and Retina Centre in India

Now, drinking beer too could increase the risk of mouth cancer. On Tuesday, researchers at the Tata Memorial Centre (TMC) reported this adding new evidence. They found a 59 per cent higher risk of mouth cancer in people who drank, on average, just two grams of alcohol from beer daily, compared with those who did not drink. The research suggests that there may not be any safe limit to drink.

What Did The Study Reveal About Beer And Cancer?

Their study in India's large scale analysis that probs link between alcohol and cancer of the buccal mucosa. This is the pink lining of cheeks and lips. In India, this kind of cancer is the second most common malignancy in India after breast cancer. It also leads to 1,40,000 new cases and nearly 80,000 deaths each year.

Who Are More Prone To Buccal Mucosa Cancer?

People who consume more than one glass of alcohol a day and chew tobacco on a day to day basis are five times more at risk of developing this cancer as compared to those who do not drink or chew tobacco.

The findings of the study was published in the journal BMJ Global Health and it suggests that joint use of both, alcohol and tobacco leads to 62 per cent of all buccal mucosa cancer in the country.

As Telegraph reported, Tata Memorial Centre for Cancer Epidemiology unit's head of molecular epidemiology and population genomics unit Sharayu Mhatre said, "We see an unmistakable pattern: the more alcohol people drink, the greater their risk of buccal mucosal cancer."

Buccal mucosal cancer continues to pose a serious public health challenge in India. Among 100 patients diagnosed with locally advanced stages of the disease, 57 die within five years, a mortality rate that experts say highlights the urgent need for prevention, early detection, and stronger regulation of risk factors.

Alcohol Emerges as a Major Risk Factor

While the link between alcohol and cancer is well known, new findings reinforce just how dangerous alcohol consumption can be for oral health. Researchers found that people who consumed alcohol had a 68% higher risk of developing buccal mucosal cancer compared to non-drinkers.

What stood out most was the type of alcohol consumed. Unregulated, locally brewed liquor carried the highest risk, increasing cancer likelihood by 87%, compared to 72% among consumers of regulated, commercially sold drinks. Experts point out that these local brews often contain significantly higher ethanol concentrations and lack quality control.

Not Just Heavy Drinking—Even Small Amounts Matter

The study analyzed drinking patterns among over 3,700 participants, comparing cancer patients with healthy individuals. Alcohol types ranged from beer and spirits like whisky and vodka to traditional local drinks such as bangla and tharra. Ethanol levels varied widely—from 5% in beer to as high as 90% in some locally distilled spirits.

Alarmingly, increased cancer risk was seen even at low levels of alcohol intake. As little as two grams of alcohol a day from beer, or roughly one glass of stronger liquor, was enough to raise concern.

Alcohol and Tobacco: A Dangerous Combination

The risk escalates dramatically when alcohol use is combined with tobacco chewing. Tobacco alone raised cancer risk by 200%, alcohol alone by 76%, but together, the risk shot up to 346%. Researchers explain that alcohol may damage the mouth’s protective lining, making it easier for tobacco-related carcinogens to penetrate and cause harm.

Health experts stress that these findings underline the need for greater public awareness, stricter monitoring of locally brewed alcohol, and stronger prevention strategies. The World Health Organization has already warned that no level of alcohol is safe, noting that even light or moderate drinking contributes to a significant number of alcohol-related cancers globally.

For India, where oral cancers remain widespread, these insights serve as a critical reminder: everyday habits can have life-altering consequences.

Delhi finds itself in a little relief as the AQI of the city has dropped to 221 as per the CAQM. GRAP IV restrictions have also been lifted, however, pollution and smog continues to take over the city. The Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for the next few days, which could affect road and air traffic.

While GRAP IV is now removed, measures under GRAP I, II, and III will continue. As per the IMD forecast, this is what could happen for the next 5 days in Delhi

• December 26: Dense fog will prevail in the morning. Visibility is likely to be low.
• December 27: Yellow alert, dense fog in the morning and afternoon.
• December 28: Yellow alert, moderate to dense fog expected in the early morning.
• December 29-30: Fog will reduce slightly, but moderate haze will prevail in the morning.

Union Transport Minister On Delhi's Pollution

Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways also highlighted the alarming conditions of Delhi's smog and pollution. He said, "I stay for hardly two days in Delhi, and get an infection," as he spoke on how pollution impacts one's health conditions. However, he did speak on the severity of pollution and highlighted how the transport sector could play a huge role to bring relief to Delhi.

He highlighted that fuel combustion and transport emission leads to most of Delhi pollution.

In an interview with the news agency ANI, the minister also said that his ministry and Central Government are working on several projects and initiatives that will free Delhi from air pollution in the next five years.

Gadkari stated that the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways is undertaking projects worth Rs 1 lakh crore in Delhi to ease traffic congestion. He stated that all these efforts will not only help free Delhi of air pollution but also reduce the country's imports, increase job opportunities, and help farmers.

Electric Buses, Cars, and Scooters

The minister highlighted that 40% of the air pollution in the National Capital region is due to the burning of fossil fuels. In this regard, the government introduced electric buses in the city and enabled automakers to introduce electric cars and two-wheelers in the country.

He further stated that alternate fuel vehicles, such as those that run on CNG, LPG, and flex fuels (E20), are also being introduced and that all these efforts combined will reduce the city's pollution levels.

CNG And Bitumin From Rice Straw

Gadkari pointed out that nearly 200 lakh tonnes of rice straw or parali is burnt in Haryana and Punjab, a major cause of air pollution in the Delhi-NCR region. In this regard, the government is setting up 400 plants to convert the rice straw into CNG. At the moment, 60 plants are operational.

The minister also discussed a new project in Panipat in which rice straw is being used to create 1 lakh litres of Ethanol, 1.5 tonnes of bitumen, and 78,000 tonnes of jet fuel.

As the year draws to a close and 2026 approaches, most women find themselves juggling work deadlines, family responsibilities, and festive plans. In the middle of it all, personal health often slips to the bottom of the list. But doctors say this is exactly the time to pause and take stock of your body, especially your reproductive and hormonal health.

“Annual gynecological screening is one of the simplest ways to prevent silent illnesses, detect early changes, and understand your reproductive health better,” says Dr Tanveer Aujla, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Motherhood Hospitals, Noida. Many common conditions show little to no symptoms in the early stages, making routine testing crucial.

Why yearly gynecological check-ups matter

Women often ignore subtle signs like fatigue, irregular periods, unexplained weight changes, or mood swings, assuming they are part of a busy lifestyle. According to Dr Aujla, this delay can be risky. “Conditions like cervical abnormalities, breast lumps, thyroid disorders, vitamin deficiencies, or hormonal imbalance often develop quietly and show symptoms only later,” she explains. A yearly check-up helps catch problems early and allows women to plan their health with confidence, especially if pregnancy is on the horizon.

Pap smear and HPV testing for cervical health

One of the most important screenings is the Pap smear combined with HPV testing. The Pap test looks for abnormal cells on the cervix, while the HPV test detects high-risk viruses responsible for most cervical cancers. “Together, they form a powerful screening tool,” Dr Aujla says. Women between 25 and 65 years should undergo this test every three to five years, or as advised by their doctor.

Breast screening for early detection

Breast health should never be overlooked. Dr Aujla advises yearly mammograms for women above 40, along with clinical breast examinations or ultrasound scans when needed. “These screenings help identify lumps, cysts, or early tissue changes,” she notes. She also stresses the importance of monthly self-examination to check for lumps, pain, or changes like inverted nipples.

Thyroid testing for unexplained symptoms

Thyroid disorders are extremely common in women and often remain undiagnosed. “A simple TSH, T3, and T4 test can explain symptoms like fatigue, mood swings, irregular periods, weight changes, or fertility issues,” says Dr Aujla. Early diagnosis can significantly improve quality of life and prevent long-term complications.

Fertility markers and preconception screening

Tests like AMH offer insight into ovarian reserve and help women plan their reproductive timelines. Dr Aujla points out that this is especially important for women with PCOS, irregular cycles, or delayed family planning. Preconception screening, which includes anemia levels, vitamin D, rubella immunity, blood sugar, and hormonal panels, ensures the body is prepared for a safe pregnancy.

Other essential health screenings

Women over 30 or those with a sedentary lifestyle should also get diabetes and cholesterol tests. Bone health panels checking calcium and vitamin D help prevent future osteoporosis. STI screening is equally important, as infections like chlamydia or gonorrhea can silently damage reproductive health if left untreated.

“Whether you are planning pregnancy or simply want to stay healthy, these tests offer clarity, confidence, and peace of mind,” Dr Aujla concludes. Taking time for these screenings before the year ends is a small step that can protect your health for years to come.