Symptom
Light sensitivity (photophobia)
Pain with light sensitivity needs urgent care
Medical reviewer Mr Mohamed Mohyudin· Last recorded site review
About this review
This page inherits the site’s previous review record. A separate, current article sign-off has not yet been recorded.
When to get urgent help
- Light sensitivity with eye pain or a very red eye
- Reduced or changed vision
- Light sensitivity after an injury or chemical splash
- Severe headache with light sensitivity
Common causes
Light sensitivity has many causes. These are common ones, with the conditions to read next.
What can help
- Sunglasses and reduced glare ease mild light sensitivity
- Lubricating drops help if the surface is dry
- Seek urgent care if light sensitivity comes with pain or vision loss
Frequently asked questions
Why are my eyes sensitive to light?
Light sensitivity often comes from a dry or irritated eye surface, or from migraine. Pain or reduced vision alongside it points to inflammation that needs urgent care.
Is light sensitivity serious?
It can be when combined with eye pain, redness or reduced vision, which may signal uveitis or another problem inside the eye and needs prompt assessment.
How can I ease light sensitivity?
Sunglasses, reducing glare, and lubricating drops for dryness help mild cases. Seek urgent care if it comes with pain or changes in vision.
Trusted sources
For general background, these organisations provide eye-health information. This list is further reading, not a record that they reviewed this article.