Photophobia also known as light sensitivity… It’s a symptom in which bright lights hurts or irritates the eyes. It’s an intolerance of light. Sources such as sunlight, fluorescent light and incandescent light all can cause discomfort, along with a need to squint or close your eyes. Headaches also may accompany light sensitivity. Light-sensitive people sometimes are bothered only by bright light.
Common causes of Photophobia
Photophobia is not always related to an underlying condition. It may be caused by:
- Contact lenses irritation
- Drug abuse
- Eye strain
- Certain drugs such as tetracycline, trifluridine, scopolamine
- Eye surgery
People with larger pupils and lighter eyes are more sensitive to light.
Treatment
Self-treatment: Self- care steps that may be helpful in some less- serious cases:
- Gradual increase of light exposure
- Avoid fluorescent light bulbs
- Double check your medications for photophobia as a side effect
- Wear sunglasses with polarization when outdoors
- Wear contact lenses or prescription glasses to avoid eye strain
- Take a break from your computer or mobile device
- Cover up reflective surfaces
- Distress by doing yoga or other exercise, listening to music etc
- Get adequate sleep
See a doctor if you notice:
- It occurs frequently
- It prevents you from doing daily activities or work
- Sensitivity occurs with headaches, red eye or blurred vision, or does not go away in a day or two days
See a doctor immediately if you notice:
- Severe eye pain
- Partial loss of vision
- Numbness or tingling elsewhere in the body
- Changes in hearing
