What Could Light Sensitivity Mean?

Light sensitivity is a common symptom of many types of eye conditions. It can also develop for issues unrelated to the eyes. Light sensitivity is often mild and only causes slight discomfort, but how do you know if it is something more serious? Keep reading below to learn more about light sensitivity, the causes, and when to see a doctor. 

What is light sensitivity? 

Light sensitivity is exactly what it sounds like. It is a condition in which light hurts the eyes. It causes squinting outside in the sunlight or in a brightly lit room. Symptoms may be mild, or they can be severe and cause discomfort even when only exposed to moderate light. Although it can vary, usually, the brighter the light, the worse the symptoms are. If sensitivity is related to an eye condition, additional symptoms are usually present. 

Causes of light sensitivity 

There are many causes of light sensitivity. Causes may range from minor to those that threaten vision.

Possible causes of light sensitivity include:
Optic neuritis: This condition involves inflammation of the optic nerve. Additional symptoms include eye pain, visual field loss, and decreased color vision.

Corneal abrasion: A corneal abrasion involves an injury or scratch to the outer layer of the eye called the cornea. It can easily develop if you get some type of particle in the eye, such as dirt or sand. Additional symptoms include irritation, watery eyes, and redness.

Inflammation of the eye: Either conjunctivitis (inflammation of the tissue covering the white part of the eye) or iritis (swelling and inflammation in the colored ring around your eye’s pupil, the iris) can cause light sensitivity. Symptoms also include increased tear production, redness, discomfort or achiness in the affected eye, decreased vision, and a gritty feeling in the eye.

Dry eye syndrome: Dry eye syndrome develops when the tear glands do not make sufficient tears to lubricate the eyes. Additional symptoms can include pain, burning, and problems wearing contact lenses. 
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Diseases where light sensitivity is a symptom

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, light sensitivity may not be a problem related to the eyes. Different types of diseases may cause light sensitivity. For example, migraine headaches often cause sensitivity to light. A more serious cause of light sensitivity is a traumatic brain injury. Meningitis, which involves inflammation of the tissue that covers the brain, can also cause light sensitivity.  

When to see a doctor

Light sensitivity is often nothing to worry about. Also, if you know why you are sensitive to light, such as having a migraine, it is also not a cause for concern. But in other cases, it may be best to see a doctor. Consider talking with your doctor if you experience any of the following:

• Light sensitivity is painful
• You have an increase in light sensitivity
• You have additional symptoms, such as blurred vision or red eyes
• You sustained an eye injury
• You have to wear sunglasses inside 

To diagnose the condition, your eye doctor will review your medical history and symptoms. The doctor also will perform an eye exam to check for other signs of eye problems. 
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How is light sensitivity treated? 

Treatment for light sensitivity usually involves alleviating the underlying cause. For example, if migraines are the issue, treating the headaches helps decrease light sensitivity. Once the underlying condition resolves, light sensitivity also improves.

The specific treatment depends on the condition. For instance, treatment may include migraine medication to prevent attacks. Eye drops may also help treat dry eyes or a corneal abrasion.

If you have light sensitivity that does not go away in a few days, it is best to have it checked out. If you have any questions about light sensitivity or other issues related to eye health, we are here to help.

Also, if you would like to ask whether an appointment with one of our eye doctors would be appropriate at this time, call our office at 508-746-8600.