There are several possible explanations for why your eyelids may hurt.
Eyelids can be sore due to infections,blepharitis,styes, andconjunctivitis.
The pain can be in the eyelid, in the eye itself, or in the surrounding areas.

fizkes / Getty Images
It can also be accompanied by other symptoms such as:
What Causes Sore Eyelids?
Styesare also an infection brought on by bacteria.
Styes appear when the oil gland is blocked.
It will create abump in the eyelidthat can occur in an internal or external area.
When it is a viral infection, it is highly contagious.
The eyes will become extremely sensitive and have a yellow or green discharge.
Atopic dermatitis(eczema) is associated withasthma,hay fever(allergic rhinitis), and chronic dermatitis.
Common allergens include tree pollens, mold spores, dust mites, and pet dander.
Injury
Eyelids are a sensitive area, and they are vulnerable to injuries.
Injuries to the eyelid may also affect the eyeball or tear ducts.
Dry Eyes
Dry eyesare another common cause of eyelid pain.
This condition often causes a lack of fluid circulation in the eye and pain in the eyelid.
The reasons can include lack of sleep, environmental conditions (wind, dust, air conditioning, etc.
), or aging.
Graves' Disease
Graves' diseaseis an autoimmune disorder that leads to hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).
The disorder is sparked by an abnormal autoimmune response that causes they thyroid to make too much thyroid hormone.
Artificial tears can offer immediate relief for people who have dry eyes.
Prescription Medication
Healthcare providers will often prescribeointmentsto treat bacterial infections.
Ointments have a jelly texture and are often used overnight.
These medications can be effective at treating bacterial conjunctivitis and some types ofkeratitis.
For Graves' disease, treatment is aimed at controlling the overactive thyroid.
Prescription medications for hyperthyroidism may include antithyroid and beta-blocker medications.
Sometimes, a steroid calledprednisonemay be prescribed to reduce eye irritation and swelling.
Long-term complications include styes.
It is more common in young children, but it can also happen in adults.
When to See a Healthcare Provider
People should pay attention when unusual symptoms follow their eyelid sores.
The following symptoms warrant immediate medical care:
Children are more vulnerable to eyelid problems.
These infections, however, should not be taken lightly.
Left untreated, they can lead to orbitalcellulitis.
Although they are often easy to treat, it is essential to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
American Academy of Ophthalmology.Inflammation.
American Academy of Ophthalmology.What is blepharitis?.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Pink eye: Causes and how it spreads.
Titcomb L.Over-the-counter ophthalmic preparations.The Pharmaceutical Journal.
Yadalla D, Jayagayathri R, Padmanaban K, et al.Bacterial orbital cellulitisa review.Indian J Opthalmol.
2023 Jul;71(7):2687-2693. doi:10.4103/IJO.IJO_3283_22
American Academy of Ophthalmology.Home remedies for simple eye problems.
Danishyar A, Sergent SR.Orbital cellulitis.
StatPearls Publishing; 2024.