Light sensitivity, sometimes called photophobia, can be frustrating and painful, and can even interfere with your ability to do daily tasks. There are many different causes of light sensitivity so it is important to work with your doctor to learn what is at the root of this problem. Treatments will vary depending on the patient and their needs. Here are some of the causes of photophobia and what doctors and patients can do to alleviate some of these symptoms.
Light sensitivity, rather than being a disease in and of itself, is actually classified as a symptom of a deeper problem. These problems can either be related to the eye, or to other parts of the body such as the brain.
Visual Causes
Light sensitivity can either be a temporary symptom or one that the patient suffers from for a longer period of time. Often, light sensitivity can occur after surgery. This is generally not cause for concern and usually clears up within a week. However, if the sensitivity becomes worse over time or does not go away after a week, it is a good idea to check in with your doctor.
Sensitivity to light can also occur when the eye has been injured in some way. Even a small scratch on the cornea from a dust particle or other foreign body can cause photophobia. If you have received a corneal abrasion or any other injury, it is important to visit your doctor in order to prevent infection and permanent damage.
Other visual causes include inflammation, infection, poorly fitting contacts, incorrect prescriptions, cataracts, dry eye, allergies, and pink eye. Thankfully, many of these conditions can be easily remedied or treated.
Non-Visual Causes
There can be many other causes of photophobia. One of the most common causes is migraines or other types of headaches. A headache and light sensitivity often go hand in hand, and the majority of sufferers find that they have to wait out the migraine in a dark room. Persistent migraines with light sensitivity should always be discussed with your doctor.
Certain medications can also cause light sensitivity. Allergy medications, medication for anxiety or depression, NSAIDs, and some birth control can have this side effect. Your doctor can help you determine if the photophobia is connected to a prescription medication that you are taking.
Although rare, photophobia can be caused by serious problems such as tumors in the pituitary gland, severe brain damage, meningitis, or supranuclear palsy. However, these are usually accompanied by other symptoms that your doctor will be able to identify.
Treatments for Light Sensitivity
Many of the causes of light sensitivity are easy to diagnose and treat. Treating the underlying cause, such as allergies, infection, or pink eye will result in a cessation of photophobia symptoms. Dry eye treatment can alleviate much of the discomfort. If a medication is causing the symptom, you can talk to your doctor about trying a different medication. Some individuals have eyes that are more sensitive to light without an underlying injury or disease. For these patients, management might mean investing in transition lenses and 100% UV protection sunglasses.
Although light sensitivity can be extremely uncomfortable, the good news is that most cases are easy to treat. If you are experiencing this symptom, contact your doctor for an appointment today.