The spring sun might feel warm and welcoming on your skin, but does it cause pain or discomfort in your eyes? This sensitivity to light could be an indicator of photophobia.
So, what exactly is photophobia? Keep reading to learn more.
Key Takeaways
- Photophobia refers to an increased sensitivity to light in the eyes. For many, it can be uncomfortable or painful.
- There are two types of photophobia - direct photophobia and consensual photophobia.
- Headaches, eye conditions, or neurological conditions are all common causes of photophobia.
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What Is Photophobia?
The literal definition of photophobia is "fear of light." However, in medicine, photophobia refers to an increased sensitivity to light in the eyes.
But photophobia doesn't just mean you need to wear heavily-tinted sunglasses on a bright summer day. It can be very uncomfortable and even painful.
What Are the Symptoms of Photophobia?
If you have photophobia or a sensitivity to light, you may:
- Blink or squint a lot when outdoors
- Shield your eyes from the sun with your hands
- Experience pain or discomfort in sunlight or in fluorescent lights
- Prefer dim lights to bright lights
- Prefer to wear sunglasses indoors
Other symptoms include:
- Blurred vision
- Neck stiffness
- Eye redness
- Dry eyes
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Are There Different Types of Photophobia?
Yes! There are two different types of photophobia - direct photophobia and consensual photophobia.
- Direct photophobia refers to eye pain that occurs when light shines directly into the affected eye.
- Consensual photophobia refers to eye pain that occurs in the opposite eye when light is shining in the affected eye.
What Are the Causes of Photophobia?
There is a link between the cells in your eyes that detect light and the nerve that travels to your brain.
There are many health conditions associated with photophobia. Migraines, tension headaches, and cluster headaches are common culprits for photophobia, as 80% of people who experience photophobia also have headaches.
Ocular conditions such as astigmatism or aniridia may lead to photophobia. Even dry eyes can contribute to an increased light sensitivity.
Some neurological conditions can be associated with photophobia, too. Even people with mental health conditions like agoraphobia, anxiety, or panic disorder can be affected by photophobia.
Lastly, certain medications can contribute to an abnormal sensitivity to light.
How Can You Treat or Prevent Photophobia?
The best way to treat photophobia is by visiting your eye doctor. They will be able to identify the underlying cause and recommend a treatment option. Common treatments for photophobia include corrective eyewear, medications, eye drops, surgery, or lifestyle changes.
When treating photophobia at home, it might be helpful to:
- Wear dark glasses or sunglasses when outside
- Avoid bright sunlight or fluorescent light
- Use dimmer indoor lights
- Adjust the lighting on your digital devices, including your phone, TV, or computer
- Use eye drops or artificial tears to relieve dry eyes
Keep Reading: Can Glasses Actually Make Your Vision Worse?
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People Also Ask
What is the main cause of photophobia?
The cause of photophobia can vary from person to person, but the most common cause is migraines or cluster headaches. Up to 80% of people who experience migraines also have photophobia.
How do you fix photophobia?
Lifestyle changes or corrective eyewear can help minimize the effects of photophobia. Wearing sunglasses outdoors, avoiding bright lights, and using dimmer lights indoors can all be helpful. If you are experiencing photophobia, visit your optometrist to determine the cause and get proper treatment.
What are the symptoms of photophobia?
The most common symptoms of photophobia include eye pain or eye discomfort when exposed to light. People with photophobia may also have the need to squint, blink excessively, or shield their eyes when exposed to light.
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