Photophobia is a condition characteristic to the eyes, where the eyes are unusually sensitive to different forms of light-low or high. This sensitivity could be to normal sunlight or even fluorescent lights.
The term photophobia literally means fear of light. However, photophobia is not a psychological condition as the name suggests. In fact, it is simply aversion to light because exposure to light can cause discomfort. There are various causes that lead to this condition and the treatment of the condition inevitably depends on its cause.
Photophobia is largely a congenital condition. However, there are many others who experience this sensitivity due to medical conditions or infections of the eye. Some people with cataract may also experience an increased sensitivity towards light. Often the use of certain medications may also cause a person to become sensitive to light, or in other words, photophobic. If a person experiences an inflammation of the eyes, that too may cause photophobia.
If you experience sensitivity to light, it is wise to talk to a doctor immediately. For people who have a congenital problem of photophobia, treatment is recommended right from an early age. However, if there has been a sudden change in the sensitivity towards light, it should be reported immediately so that timely diagnosis is made and treatment is given.
Usually the condition occurs if there is too much light entering the eye. The light receptors in the eyes are extremely sensitive and may get affected if they are exposed to excess of light. When there is a lot of light entering into the eye, it over stimulates these receptors, causing discomfort and pain.
Photophobia causes symptoms like dizziness and headaches when exposed to the sun. The discomfort that is caused by the exposure to light might cause a person to prefer staying indoors or wearing dark shaded glasses. A person suffering from photophobia typically avoids going to places where there is full bright light.
While the doctor explores the cause of photophobia, the patient is advised to wear shaded glasses or sunglasses. Depending on the cause of the increased sensitivity, the doctor will treat the condition.
Since usually photophobia is caused by inflammation in the eye, the doctor will look for signs of inflammation and treat accordingly. However, the doctor may also examine your medications to check whether the photophobia has been caused due to a particular medication. In case it is caused due to a medication, an alternate medicine will usually be prescribed.
Author Resource:-
Kevin Pederson, authors web content for http://www.diethealthclub.com a complete online resource featuring diet, health and fitness. This article is focused on teaching you how to make food basket for christmas holidays
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