Why Are Your Eyes Sensitive to Light? Possible Causes and Solutions

If bright lights make you squint, wince, or reach for your sunglasses indoors, you might be dealing with photophobia, or extreme light sensitivity. While it’s normal for your eyes to adjust when moving from dark to bright environments, persistent discomfort in bright light could signal an underlying issue.

Light sensitivity is often a symptom of another condition rather than a standalone problem. Here’s a look at some of the most common causes and how to manage them.

1. Dry Eye Syndrome

When your eyes don’t produce enough healthy tears, their surface becomes uneven, causing light to scatter and making you more sensitive to brightness.

Other symptoms include:

• Itchiness and redness

• A gritty or burning sensation

• Blurred vision

Fix it: Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops, gels, or ointments may provide relief. For severe cases, an ophthalmologist may recommend prescription drops or tear duct plugs to help retain moisture.

2. Corneal Abrasions

A scratch on the cornea, the clear outer layer of the eye, can cause significant discomfort, including light sensitivity, tearing, and pain. These injuries are often caused by:

• Contact lenses

• Dust, sand, or debris

• Accidental eye rubbing

Fix it: If you suspect a corneal abrasion:

• Rinse your eye with clean water or saline

• Blink several times to dislodge debris

• Avoid rubbing your eye or using contact lenses

Most minor scratches heal within a day or two, but see an eye doctor if symptoms persist to prevent infection.

3. Migraines

More than 80% of migraine sufferers experience photophobia, according to research. Migraines can make the occipital lobe, the part of the brain that processes vision, overly sensitive to light.

Fix it: Try blue light-filtering glasses or screen protectors, and consider switching to green light bulbs, which are less likely to trigger migraines.

4. Uveitis

Uveitis is an inflammation inside the eye that can cause severe light sensitivity, eye pain, redness, and blurry vision. It’s sometimes linked to autoimmune conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.

Fix it: Seek medical attention immediately, as untreated uveitis can lead to vision loss.

5. Eye Infections (Pink Eye)

Conjunctivitis, or pink eye, can cause redness, itching, watery discharge, and light sensitivity. Viral infections usually resolve on their own, but bacterial cases may require antibiotic eye drops.

Fix it: Use cold compresses and artificial tears to relieve discomfort, and wash hands frequently to prevent spreading infections.

6. Medication Side Effects

Certain medications can increase sensitivity to light, including:

• NSAIDs (ibuprofen, aspirin)

• Antibiotics

• Acne treatments (like isotretinoin)

• Diuretics and sedatives

Fix it: If photophobia started after taking a new medication, ask your doctor if an alternative is available.

7. Concussions and Brain Injuries

Head trauma can lead to persistent light sensitivity due to irritation of the brain’s pain-sensitive structures. Concussions may also cause:

• Headaches

• Dizziness or nausea

• Blurred vision

Fix it: If you’ve recently hit your head and are experiencing photophobia, seek medical attention. Symptoms may not appear until hours or days later.

8. Albinism and Genetic Conditions

People with albinism often experience light sensitivity because they have reduced pigment in their eyes, which normally helps filter bright light.

Fix it: Wearing UV-protective sunglasses and avoiding prolonged sun exposure can help reduce discomfort.

9. Other Medical Conditions

Certain neurological and autoimmune disorders, such as fibromyalgia, strokes, and blepharospasm, can also contribute to light sensitivity.

Fix it: If you have persistent photophobia with no clear cause, consult a neurologist or ophthalmologist for further evaluation.

Tips for Managing Light Sensitivity

Even if you can’t eliminate photophobia, these strategies can help reduce discomfort:

• Wear sunglasses with UV protection–But avoid wearing them indoors, as this can make eyes more sensitive over time.

• Try FL-41 tinted glasses–These block blue-green light, which may worsen sensitivity.

• Use artificial tears–Lubricating drops can reduce dryness-related photophobia.

• Adjust your screen settings–Lower brightness and use night mode or blue light filters on devices.

• Get regular eye check-ups–Routine exams can catch underlying issues early.

Final Thoughts

Light sensitivity is often linked to eye strain, migraines, infections, or neurological conditions. Identifying the root cause is key to finding relief. If photophobia is persistent or worsening, schedule an eye exam to rule out serious conditions.

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