There are several eye-related issues that people deal with on a daily basis. One example is photophobia or light sensitivity. Although the eyes need light to perceive the surroundings, some people experience discomfort or pain when their eyes are exposed to light. This condition is called photophobia, and it is caused by various factors. Fortunately, there are also several ways to deal with it effectively.
Continue reading as eyeglasses and contact lens expert Eyes on Norbeck shares more information about photophobia.
What Is Photophobia?
Photophobia or light sensitivity is a condition where a person experiences discomfort or pain when their eyes are exposed to a certain amount of light. In most cases, when a person has photophobia, bright lights can force them to squint to limit the amount of light going into their eyes. Headaches are also a common symptom among people with light sensitivity. In some extreme cases, any form of light can feel blinding to a person.
Causes of Photophobia
It is important to note that photophobia isn’t an eye disease. It’s more of a symptom that manifests as an effect of an eye condition, which causes eye inflammation or infections. It can also be due to an underlying medical problem that is not related to the eyes at all, such as viral diseases or migraines.
Here are some of the other common causes of photophobia:
- Corneal abrasion or ulcer
- Poor contact lens fit or contact lens overwearing
- Eye injury or recovery from eye surgery
- Meningitis
- Migraine headaches
- Certain medications
If you’re experiencing recurring bouts of photophobia, it’s best to visit your trusted optometrist.
How to Deal With Photophobia
The most effective ways to deal with photophobia are wearing proper eye protection and addressing any health issues that are causing your light sensitivity. You can also limit the amount of light that enters your eyes by wearing sunglasses and wide-brimmed headwear, especially on sunny days. If you have any underlying medical condition that may be causing the discomfort, it’s important to address that immediately to stop the pain in your eyes.
Get quality eye care services from Eyes on Norbeck. We make it our mission to help people deal with their eye concerns and offer comprehensive solutions that will address their condition. Schedule a computer vision exam today by filling out our contact form or calling us at (301) 238-7199. We serve patients in Rockville, MD, and other nearby areas.
