Photophobia

Photophobia Diagnosis

If you think you’re experiencing photophobia, it’s a good idea to see your optometrist. We can take a look at how healthy your eyes are and see how we can help.

During your appointment, we will ask you questions about your symptoms and medical history. We will also examine your eyes to check for issues such as inflammation, dry eyes, or signs of eye disease or damage. We may also refer you to an ophthalmologist or doctor for further tests, such as blood tests or brain scans.

Photophobia Causes and Treatment

Photophobia³ ⁴ can be a symptom of many different conditions. Treating this will depend on the cause of the eye sensitivity, so diagnosis is important.

Eye Conditions

There are many eye conditions that can cause sensitivity to light.

Cataracts

Macular degeneration

Uveitis

Conjunctivitis

Dry Eyes

Corneal Abrasion

Migraines and headaches

Migraines are moderate to severe headaches that usually appear along with other symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, as well as sensitivity to light and sound. They are the most common causes of photophobia.

Other types of headaches like cluster or tension headaches can also cause photosensitivity. If this is the case, treatment usually involves rest and medication.

Brain Conditions

Some brain conditions can also cause photophobia, including:

Meningitis: This infection can cause the swelling of the protective coverings of your brain and spinal cord. It can also cause fever, chills, severe headaches, nausea, vomiting and a stiff neck. Bacterial forms of meningitis can be treated with antibiotics, however, more serious cases may need more intensive treatment. Severe cases can even lead to serious medical complications including brain damage or even death.
Encephalitis: This viral infection can cause your brain to become inflamed. Treatment for milder cases of this condition include anti-inflammatory medications, bed rest, and fluids. Severe cases can be life-threatening however and require more intensive care.
Subarachnoid hemorrhage: This is bleeding on the brain, usually caused by a burst blood vessel. Symptoms of this can include a sudden and severe headache, irritability, confusion and numbness. This condition can lead to brain damage or even death if left untreated. Treatment can include surgery to reduce the pressure in your brain.

If you think you may have any of these symptoms or conditions alongside photophobia, you should seek urgent medical attention.

Side Effects of Medication

Some medications can cause sensitivity to light including some antibiotics, some medications used to treat fluid retention and some antimalarial drugs. Photophobia symptoms should improve once you stop taking the medication.

Relieving Symptoms of Photophobia

Once you’ve been diagnosed and you’re waiting for treatment to take effect, there are ways to manage your symptoms. The easiest is wearing sunglasses in bright light, or trying to avoid bright light all together. Also try to avoid wearing sunglasses indoors, as this can make photosensitivity worse. Pain medications can also help with headaches, and eye drops can help if your eyes are dry.

If you are affected by photophobia and would like to learn more about local support groups or forums of people affected by light sensitivity, please contact the NHS for more information.

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