Light Sensitivity

Have you ever been outside on a bright, sunny day and felt the need to squint or shield your eyes? If so, you may be experiencing a condition known as light sensitivity. Light sensitivity, also known as photophobia, is a condition in which a person's eyes are overly sensitive to light.

You're not alone. According to the American Optometric Association, up to 30% of the US population experiences symptoms of photophobia.

What Causes Light Sensitivity?

The cause of photophobia is not fully understood.

It may be linked to nerve damage or neuro-ophthalmic disorders. The symptom can occur in primary eye conditions such as uveitis and certain retinal dystrophies which are considered medical emergencies if left untreated. It also appears on lists for migraine symptoms internationally recognized by the International Classification of Headache Disorders.

Yet other professional sources suggested that photophobia is merely a functional symptom without an organic basis. 

There are a number of different things that can trigger light sensitivity. One of the most common is simply spending too much time looking at screens, whether that's a computer screen, a phone screen, or a TV screen. The blue light emitted by these screens can cause eye fatigue and strain, which can lead to light sensitivity. Other causes of light sensitivity include migraines, concussions, medications, and underlying health conditions and exposure to bright lights without proper protection.

What Symptoms does Light Sensitivity have?

The most common symptom of light sensitivity is, of course, discomfort in the eyes when exposed to bright light. This can manifest as a feeling of burning, stinging, watery or itching eyes.

People with light sensitivity may also experience headaches, migraines, watery eyes, and blurred vision. In extreme cases, exposure to bright light can even cause nausea and vomiting.

How is Light Sensitivity Diagnosed?

If you think you may be experiencing light sensitivity, the first step is to consult with your eye doctor. After conducting a comprehensive eye exam, they will be able to determine whether or not you have photophobia and if so, what may be causing it.

In some cases, your doctor may also recommend that you

Is there a cure for Light Sensitivity?

There is currently no cure for light sensitivity.

However, there are ways to reduce its effects and make living with it more manageable. There is, unfortunately, no one-size-fits-all answer here. The best way to deal with light sensitivity is to figure out what is causing it and then take steps to address the underlying issue.

Tips to reduce light sensitivity

Reduce bright lights

When you are trying to avoid light sensitivity, it is important to reduce the amount of bright light that you are exposed to. This means turning off overhead lights and lamps and closing blinds or curtains. If you are outside, wear sunglasses or a hat with a brim to shield your eyes from the sun’s glare.

1. Use sunglasses or tinted contact lenses when outdoors.

2. Install light-filtering window treatments in your home.

3. Wear a hat with a brim when outdoors.

4. Use an LCD monitor screen filter when working at a computer.

5. Reduce the number of fluorescent lights in your home or office.

6. Invest in a pair of blue-light blocking glasses to wear when using a computer.

Use artificial tears

1. Dry eyes can make light sensitivity worse. Artificial tears can help lubricate your eyes and make them feel more comfortable.

Take breaks from screen time

If you work on a computer or spend a lot of time looking at your phone, it is important to take breaks every 20 minutes or so. During these breaks, close your eyes or look away from the screen to give your eyes a rest.

6. Take regular breaks when working or studying in front of a screen.

See your doctor

If you have tried these tips and are still struggling with light sensitivity, it is important to see your doctor to rule out any underlying health conditions. They may also be able to prescribe medication to help relieve your symptoms.

7. Get regular eye exams and consult with your doctor about any medications or medical condition you're taking that may be contributing to your light sensitivity.

9. Keep a journal of your symptoms and triggers so you can avoid them in the future.

10. Seek help from a therapist if you're struggling to cope with the effects of light sensitivity on your daily life.

Light sensitivity can be more than just a nuisance; it can be downright painful. If you suffer from light sensitivity, there are a few things that you can do to ease your symptoms. Try reducing bright lights, using artificial tears, taking breaks from screen time, and seeing your doctor if your symptoms persist.

What can I buy at eOptika to help with my light sensitivity?

Tip1: What types of sunglasses to use for light sensitivity?

There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing sunglasses for light sensitivity. First, make sure that the lenses are 100% UV protected. Second, look for lenses that are dark enough to block out a significant amount of light. Third, consider polarized lenses, which can help reduce glare. Fourth, try photochromic lenses, which darken in the sun and lighten indoors. Finally, make sure the sunglasses fit well and are comfortable to wear.

eOptika offers a wide variety of sunglasses that can help with light sensitivity. We carry brands like Ray-Ban, Oakley, Costa Del Mar, Maui Jim, and more. We also have a variety of lens options available, including polarized and photochromic

Tip2: Do computer glasses help counter light sensitivity?

Yes, computer glasses can help with light sensitivity. They work by blocking out blue light, which is a type of light that can be especially harsh on the eyes. Computer glasses can help reduce eye strain, headaches, and fatigue. If you spend a lot of time looking at screens, we recommend that you invest in a pair of computer glasses.

eOptika offers a variety of computer glasses from brands like Gunnar, Blue Blocker, and more. We also have a variety of lens options available, including polarized and photochromic.

Tip3: Best eyedrops for light sensitivity

If you suffer from dry eyes, this can make light sensitivity worse. Artificial tears can help lubricate your eyes and make them feel more comfortable. We recommend that you try a few different brands to see which one works best for you. Some of our favorites include Systane, Blink, and Refresh.

eOptika offers a wide variety of artificial tears from brands like Systane, Blink, Refresh, and more.

Ask the doctor

Why are my eyes sensitive to light all of a sudden?

Sudden onset light sensitivity can be due to a number of things. It could be a sign of an underlying health condition, such as migraines, iritis, or even diabetes. It could also be a side effect of certain medications. If you are experiencing sudden onset light sensitivity, we recommend that you see your doctor to rule out any underlying health conditions.

Could my eyes become sensitive to light because of COVID?

There is currently no evidence that COVID-19 causes light sensitivity. However, some people who have COVID-19 may experience light sensitivity as a symptom of the virus. If you are experiencing light sensitivity, we recommend that you see your doctor to rule out any underlying health conditions.