A shocking survey by the WHO states nearly 50% of the human population experience severe headaches due to increased blue light exposure. 30% of people among those high risk 50% will get migraines in a few years. Patients with migraine experience an extreme stabbing headache which occurs at any time. A condition called light sensitivity or photophobia also occurs in addition to migraines complicating their life further.
What is light sensitivity?
People cannot open their eyes, and their eyelids close involuntarily even to normal light (Blepharospasm ). They start fearing bright light as their eyes are susceptible to light exposure causing pain and irritation. Both outdoor sun and indoor fluorescent light cause severe eye problems for photophobic patients. Often, it is a manifestation of some brain issue or medication given for psychological problems.
The closing of eyes and irritation leads to dry eyes and infections in the eyes, which lead to swelling and inflammation. Migraine patients often become light-sensitive because specific light wavelengths that trigger the headache also cause light sensitivity. Prescription glasses with FL 41 lenses help control light sensitivity by 80%, providing easy relief for migraine patients. Treatment at the right time is essential because negligence can cause severe eye disorders which might last a lifetime.
Major symptoms
Stabbing pain when you close your eyes and an uncontrollable irritation is the first symptom of light sensitivity. The pain might occur continuously or when you strain your eyes too much. Some people might experience hearing problems due to eye issues. The eyes will get read even if you read or watch television for half an hour and water profusely. Headaches unable to focus on reading or watching something closely are the other common symptoms.
Itching and swelling of the eyes are common, and rubbing them further will lead to various infections. The soreness caused by the wounds in the eyes will create a major strain on the vision and a constant burning sensation. All this will lead to blurred vision, and unbearable pain in the eye, and the infections will escalate into problems like conjunctivitis and meningitis. The small blood vessels in the white part of the eye will get bigger and swollen causing red lines in the eyes.
Causes of photophobia
Light sensitivity occurs due to three main reasons a) brain issues, b) mental disorders, and c) eye problems. Brain issues like small tumors in the pituitary gland or a severe brain injury like post-concussion syndrome might trigger light sensitivity in the eyes. Meningitis caused due to bacterial infections, which make the protection cover of the brain or spinal cord swell, is also a reason for photophobia.
Mental issues like panic attacks, depression, or anxiety and the medicines taken to control them cause light sensitivity issues. The primary reason for light sensitivity is dry eyes and swelling, which occurs because of overstraining. Cataracts, retinal or corneal damage, and viral conjunctivitis can lead to photophobia. Eye diseases like Iritis, which causes the blood vessels around the pupil to swell, and constant twitching of the eyes also cause light sensitivity. Infection in the eyes, side effects of medications, and underlying issues in the brain all trigger the condition.
Treatment for the condition
Diagnosis and treatment for the photophobia involve eye exams and checking for medications causing allergies. The doctors usually check for several underlying conditions, from diabetes to brain issues, before concluding it is photophobia. The eye gets examined through a unique microscope under the slit lamp. The tear level in the eyes gets measured, and an MRI gets taken to eliminate brain-related issues.
FL-41 glasses with pink tints are prescribed based on the damage. Doctors prescribe migraine-controlling tablets and eye drop to reduce swelling and create tears. They also suggest antibiotics for small wounds that cause severe irritation to the eyes. The doctors recommend lifestyle alteration and eye exercises to prevent further damage and light filters in gadgets. Some doctors suggest antihistamine pills for controlling allergic reactions and recommend keeping a cold compress on the eye to relieve stress and burning sensation.
Preventive measures
Add green leaves like spinach, broccoli, and kale to your daily diet because they are rich in Lutein and Zeaxanthin carotenoids. FL-41 precision tinted glasses are the best solution to control light sensitivity in the eyes. The lenses filter light based on various conditions like Blepharospasm, vision stress, or macular degeneration. Use the glasses regularly and mainly when working in front of digital devices to get complete protection.
The best way to avoid such infections is to use digital devices wisely and take frequent breaks. Train the eyes just like you exercise your body with extra care. Do not share eye makeup, lenses, and other items that might spread infections. Do not rub your eyes and use cheap drugstore eye products for regular makeup. Practice good eye hygiene if you work or live in a highly polluted area. Wash the eyes regularly and use required drops to prevent them from drying.
