Photophobia is eye discomfort in bright light.
Photophobia is a fairly common symptom. For many people, photophobia is not due to any disease. Severe photophobia may occur with eye problems and can cause severe eye pain even in relatively low light.
You can reduce the discomfort of light sensitivity by:
If eye pain is severe, see your health care provider to determine the cause of light sensitivity. Proper treatment may cure the problem. Seek urgent medical attention if your pain is moderate to severe, even in low-light conditions.
Call your doctor if light sensitivity is severe or painful -- for example, if you need to wear sunglasses indoors.
Also call if the sensitivity occurs with headaches, red eye or blurred vision or does not go away in a day or two.
The doctor will perform a physical examination, including an eye exam. You may be asked the following questions:
Tell your doctor if you have any of these symptoms:
The following tests may be done:
Light sensitivity; Vision - light sensitive; Eyes - sensitivity to light
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Updated by: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; and Franklin W. Lusby, MD, Ophthalmologist, Lusby Vision Institute, La Jolla, California. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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