August 13, 2024

Photophobia and Light Sensitivity

What could be causing my light sensitivity and what can I do about it? Photophobia, or light sensitivity can have multiple causes, and many companies have filters, tints, or special glasses claiming to help. It's…
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Opto-Mization Optometry & Vision Therapy

What could be causing my light sensitivity and what can I do about it?

Photophobia, or light sensitivity can have multiple causes, and many companies have filters, tints, or special glasses claiming to help. It’s important you know how to find the route cause of your photophobia, and how to treat it.

Causes:

Uveitis, Iritis, or inflammatory conditions.

The most obvious causes for photophobia (light sensitivity) are physically problems with the eye that cause the light to scatter as it passes through the eye.  One of the most common is termed iritis and refers to inflammation inside the eye.  If this is the cause of your light sensitivity it will be easily detected.  It is most often treated with steroids, and/or treating any underlying systemic conditions.  For the short term sunglasses or dark lenses can be worn, as the light sensitivity in these cases usually resolves within days to a week.

Concussion or head injury

Photophobia (light sensitivity) is common after concussion and head injury.  Unless there is physical damage to the eye (causing iritis or uveitis), the light sensitivity is most often linked to problems with how the eyes and the brain work together.  This could be because the eyes are not working together properly, sometimes called binocular dysfunction or binocular vision disorder, or because the brain is having trouble processing the light.  Treatment options range from specialty glasses prescriptions including prism, light filters such as FL41 or blue tints, and vision therapy.  It is important to see a neuro-optometrist, who focuses on testing and treating how the eyes and the brain work together.

General Photophobia

Photophobia that isn’t well explained by uveitis can often be caused by problems with how the eyes work together.  It can sometimes have been there for the majority of a person’s life, slowly getting worse.  Other times it can seem to onset after years of working at a computer, which sometimes gets referred to as computer vision syndrome.  Most often this type of photophobia presents with headaches, dizziness, screen sensitivity or with what people assume is sensitivity to blue light. Often this type of photophobia is due to problems with how the eyes are working together, and the strain that is often put on the visual system.  An examination with a neuro-optometrist who focues on this area of treatment (including prisms, filters, and vision therapy), should be able to uncover the reason why and provide solutions.  Treatment often involves specialty glasses that improve efficiency (and reduce symptoms), filters (such as Fl41) and vision therapy (to improve how the eyes and the brain work together).

Treat the reason it’s happening

In any case of photophobia or light sensitivity, the most important part is treating the underlying condition that is causing the photophobia. Cases of inflammation like uveitis should be seen by your optometrist or ophthalmologist in order to diagnose via slit-lamp examination and treat with steroids or other medication.  If this has been ruled out, it is important to see a neuro-optometrist who provides vision therapy, specialty glasses prescriptions (including Fl41 and other tints), and tinted lenses.  This way you can get to the root of the problem and see improvements.

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Opto-Mization Optometry & Vision Therapy
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Victoria, BC V8T 4Z7
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Our Nanaimo Practice
Opto-Mization Optometry & Vision Therapy
205-1825 Bowen Rd
Nanaimo, BC V9S 1H1
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  • What is Neuro-Optometry?

    Neuro-Optometry focuses on the intricate connection between your visual system and the brain, extending beyond traditional eye care to assess functional vision. This branch of optometry examines how your eyes track, move, coordinate, and how your brain processes depth, motion, and balance. Disruptions in these functions can lead to a range of issues including headaches, migraines, dizziness, balance challenges, post-concussion symptoms, reading difficulties, and attention deficits (ADHD). By exploring these functional areas, we also identify opportunities to enhance performance in activities such as sports, reading speed, and cognitive processes.

  • What is Vision Therapy?

    At Opto-Mization, vision therapy is a specialized, personalized program aimed at improving visual skills and abilities. It goes beyond traditional vision therapy to help improve how the eyes and brain work together, addressing visual-motor and perceptual-cognitive challenges to enhance overall visual function. It’s more than just exercises; it’s a pathway to better vision and improved daily life.

  • Do you Provide Regular Eye Exams and General Optometric Services?

    Yes, alongside vision therapy and neuro-optometry, we offer comprehensive eye exams and general optometry services. Our experienced optometrists perform thorough eye exams to evaluate overall eye health, identify any eye conditions or diseases, and prescribe corrective lenses when beneficial.

  • Who is the Ideal Candidate for Vision Therapy and Neuro-Optometry?

    Vision therapy and neuro-optometric rehabilitation can help individuals of all ages. Whether you’re struggling with visual processing issues, binocular vision disorders, amblyopia (lazy eye), strabismus (eye misalignment), or have sustained a brain injury, our services might be beneficial for you. Contact us to discuss if our tailored approach can meet your specific needs and goals.

  • Do I Need a Referral to See an Optometrist at Opto-Mization?

    No, you do not need a referral for an eye exam at Opto-Mization. We welcome anyone who suspects they might benefit from our services, whether you’re experiencing symptoms of visual discomfort or just want to ensure optimal visual performance. Feel free to reach out and schedule your appointment directly with us to take the first step toward understanding and improving your visual function.

  • Do You Direct Bill Insurance?

    Yes, we offer direct billing for a variety of insurance plans to make the process as seamless and hassle-free as possible for our patients. Our knowledgeable staff is well-versed in working with insurance providers, ensuring that you can maximize your benefits while minimizing out-of-pocket expenses for our services, including vision therapy and eye exams.