General Eye Conditions and Tests
Why am I sensitive to light?
Light sensitivity, or photophobia, most often comes from the corneal surface, for example dryness, a scratch or an ulcer, or from inflammation inside the eye. It is also typical of migraine, and it is expected for a few hours after dilating drops. Light sensitivity with pain or reduced vision needs assessment the same day.
Common causes
- Dry eye and a disturbed corneal surface
- Corneal abrasion, foreign body or ulcer
- Uveitis, inflammation inside the eye, which characteristically causes aching light sensitivity
- Migraine, often with headache, nausea and a preference for a dark room
- Dilating drops, and recovery after eye surgery
- Cataract and other causes of light scatter, producing glare rather than pain
Less common but important
Light sensitivity with a stiff neck, fever and headache needs emergency assessment for meningitis. New severe light sensitivity with a painful red eye and reduced vision can indicate uveitis, a corneal ulcer or acute glaucoma. Light sensitivity in a child with watering and a large cloudy eye needs urgent specialist review, as it can indicate childhood glaucoma.
What helps in the meantime
Good quality sunglasses with ultraviolet protection, a wide brimmed hat, reducing screen brightness and using warm rather than harsh lighting all help. Lubricants ease surface related sensitivity. These measures do not replace examination where there is pain or reduced vision.
When to seek urgent assessment
- Light sensitivity with eye pain or reduced vision, which needs same day assessment
- Light sensitivity with fever, severe headache or a stiff neck, which needs emergency care
- In a baby or young child, light sensitivity with watering and enlarged cloudy eyes
Frequently asked questions
- Is light sensitivity a sign of a serious problem?
- Not always. It is common in dry eye and migraine. It becomes concerning when combined with pain, reduced vision, redness or fever.
- How long does sensitivity last after dilating drops?
- Usually four to six hours, occasionally longer in children or with stronger drops. Sunglasses help while it wears off.
Concerned about these symptoms?
Arrange an eye examination with our consultant ophthalmologist in Garki, Abuja.
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