Photophobia is a sensitivity to light in which light exposure can cause eye discomfort or pain. 

As reported by Medical News Today, photophobia can be caused by the following:

Neurological Conditions

Photophobia may arise from nervous system disorders such as migraines, blepharospasm (eyelid twitching), brain injury, and meningitis.

Eye Conditions

Another cause is dry eye, where tear production is insufficient to keep the eye surface lubricated.

Other eye problems that can lead to photophobia include:

Conjunctivitis - which is inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane covering the white of the eye.

Corneal disease - which affects the cornea, the clear tissue that protects the iris and pupil.

Optic neuritis - an inflammation of the optic nerve.

Uveitis - inflammation inside the eye that is often associated with autoimmune disorders.

Psychological Conditions

Several psychological issues can contribute to photophobia, including:

• Agoraphobia, a fear of crowds or leaving home.
• Depression.
• Panic and anxiety disorders.

Medication-Related Conditions

Photophobia can also occur as a side effect of certain medications, including:

• Benzodiazepines, for example diazepam, a drug used for anxiety.

   

• Barbiturates, for example amobarbital, a sedative that lowers alertness and reduces anxiety.

   

• Haloperidol (Haldol), a medicine used for mental health conditions.

   

• Chloroquine (Aralen), an antimalarial medication.

Light-Triggered Conditions

Brighter light tends to be more uncomfortable for people with photophobia. Blue wavelengths may cause more sensitivity than other light colors. In addition, flickering lights or striped patterns can also provoke sensitivity.

How to Treat Photophobia?

According to Healthline, it is important to see a doctor if you notice symptoms of photophobia. A clinician can help identify causes and select the most appropriate treatment and medication for your situation.

Common treatments for photophobia include:

• Oral medications to address photophobia linked to migraines.
• Eye drops for photophobia caused by scleritis.
• Antibiotic medications for photophobia due to conjunctivitis.
• Artificial tears for photophobia related to dry eye syndrome.
• Antibiotic eye drops for photophobia from corneal abrasions.
• Anti-inflammatory medications for photophobia associated with encephalitis.
• Antibiotics for photophobia linked to bacterial meningitis.
• Surgery to remove excess blood when increased pressure on the brain causes a subarachnoid hemorrhage.

Steps to help prevent photophobia include:

• Avoid migraine triggers if you are prone to migraines.
• Maintain eye hygiene by not sharing eye makeup and removing eye makeup before sleeping.
• Lower the risk of meningitis by washing hands and getting vaccinated against bacterial meningitis.
• Reduce the risk of encephalitis by washing hands.
• Get the encephalitis vaccine.

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