Understanding Photophobia And Light Sensitivity
Photophobia is a heightened sensitivity to light, causing discomfort or pain in the eyes when exposed to normal lighting conditions.
Medical conditions most commonly related to photophobia
Achromatopsia
Rather than seeing the full range of colors, people with achromatopsia often see the world in shades of gray. They also experience blurry vision and light sensitivity.
Aniridia
People with aniridia are unfortunately born with a missing or malformed iris and often have very sensitive eyes, especially in bright light. This can lead to vision problems such as blurry vision, cataracts and glaucoma.
Brain Trauma
When a person experiences brain trauma, also known as traumatic brain injury (TBI), normal brain function can be disrupted, often leading to visual symptoms such as photophobia (light sensitivity).
Diabetic Retinopathy
In diabetic retinopathy, high blood sugar levels damage the tiny blood vessels in the retina, leading to vision problems such as blurry vision, floaters, and increased sensitivity to light.
Glaucoma
In glaucoma, increased pressure inside the eye can damage the optic nerve, gradually reducing peripheral vision and sometimes causing light sensitivity.
Macular Degeneration
The macula is a small area in the center of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. When it is damaged, vision becomes blurred or distorted.
Migraines
Migraines are a neurological condition that can cause severe, recurring headaches, often accompanied by photophobia, or sensitivity to light.
Optic Nerve Degeneration
The optic nerve carries visual information from the eye to the brain, but when damaged, vision might be dimmed and reduced. Eventually, the pupil may stop reacting to light.
Post-Cataract Surgery
While post-cataract surgery typically restores vision and improves quality of life, it can also lead to temporary photophobia, or increased sensitivity to light, especially in the weeks following the operation.
Retinitis Pigmentosa
People with retinitis pigmentosa gradually lose their ability to see in low light and may develop tunnel vision as the photoreceptor cells in their retina gradually break down.
Your eyes deserve better
Managing photophobia with the right tinted lenses.
Tinted lenses, especially those blocking specific wavelengths can significantly reduce symptoms of photophobia by filtering out harsh or triggering light. These lenses are beneficial for people with migraines, achromatopsia, and other retinal disorders. People who wear tinted lenses report improvements in comfort, reduced glare and better tolerance to light.
Struggling with photophobia?
Are bright lights making your daily life uncomfortable? Finding relief starts with understanding what's really affecting your vision.
Take our free Light Sensitivity Quiz today to uncover which medical conditions could be behind your symptoms and get personalized recommendations for the best sunglasses to protect your eyes.
Understanding Light Sensitivity (Photophobia)
Good lighting can help you make the most of your sight, particularly if you have an eye condition that is affecting your vision. However, for some people, everyday lighting conditions can seem too bright, causing them discomfort and this can even affect their quality of vision. Light sensitivity, also known as photophobia, often affects people who have an underlying eye condition.
What causes light sensitivity?
What causes light sensitivity?
What is glare?
What is glare?
What is discomfort glare?
What is discomfort glare?
What is disability glare?
What is disability glare?
What should I do if I have light sensitivity and glare?
It’s important to see an optometrist (optician) if you are sensitive to light, so they can examine your eyes. An optometrist will be able to check the health of your eyes and look for any underlying eye condition which could be causing your light sensitivity or issues with glare.
If you suddenly become sensitive to light or your light sensitivity worsens, you should have your eyes checked as soon as possible, as it can indicate that an eye condition has become worse or that a new condition has developed. Much less commonly, more severe light sensitivity that starts very quickly can be the first sign of a serious condition, such as meningitis. If you are in any doubt, it is always best to have any new symptoms checked by a doctor or optometrist.
p { margin-bottom: 16px; }Can I have light sensitivity without a medical cause?
Can I have light sensitivity without a medical cause?
Can light sensitivity or glare be treated?
Can light sensitivity or glare be treated?