I have noticed over the last month that I have become much more sensitive to bright light than I was before. It’s quite uncomfortable! What could be causing this?
Answer: What you are experiencing is called photophobia, which, despite its name, is not a fear of light, but is simply an intolerance or sensitivity to it. However, the simplicity ends there, because photophobia can be linked to a multitude of eye conditions, medications, and other health issues. Aside from pain or discomfort in and around the eyes, other symptoms can include seeing bright-coloured spots even in the dark, difficulty focusing, squinting, or feeling the urge to close your eyes, and experiencing headaches of either the migraine or more standard variety. It can be short-term and temporary or chronic and persistent, depending on the underlying cause.
One of the best ways to resolve this problem is to book an appointment with your optometrist. During your visit, they can examine your eyes and the surrounding tissues for signs of inflammation, dryness, corneal damage, or eye conditions such as cataracts or glaucoma. To assist in determining the cause, be sure to relay your personal and family medical history, including mentioning injuries or surgeries you’ve had, and report any recent lifestyle changes. Please also bring a list of all of your current medications, since photophobia is a possible side effect of many commonly prescribed drugs that you might not typically associate with your eyes.
Once the cause is determined, you might be prescribed treatments or given other recommendations that can manage or possibly even stop the light sensitivity. In rare cases, especially if the onset is sudden or extremely severe, photophobia can be a harbinger of more serious health conditions, so it’s best not to put off finding the source of your discomfort. Your optometrist can help bring relief and, if needed, make referrals to other medical professionals. You are in good hands!
At Mayfair Optometric Clinic, we provide a welcoming environment for patients to receive eye exams and pick out the perfect eyewear that works for each individual. Please give us a call to book your appointment with Dr. Peddle or myself.
