According to the American Optometric Association, approximately 80% of what a child learns in school is acquired through vision, and […]
A condition called light sensitivity, scientifically known as photophobia, may result in intolerance to light, squinting, or eye discomfort. Bright lights can cause problems for those with light sensitivity, whether they are outside or indoors. High levels of light indoors or bright sunlight can cause pain and headaches in some patients. They may also be forced to blink frequently or even close their eyes completely. Although light sensitivity is not usually considered serious, since it can be caused by a variety of conditions, some more severe than others, it is important to have it checked so the root cause can be determined and treated.
An individual's sensitivity to light can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from more benign to more serious. The following list outlines a few possible causes for light sensitivity:
Doctors typically ask about symptoms, medical history, medications taken, and other information. Depending on the symptoms, the health of the eyes and brain might also be evaluated.
A doctor will perform a variety of tests when assessing the cause of your light sensitivity:
In some cases more advanced testing may be required to rule out other conditions such as:
Light sensitivity can be treated in a variety of ways, depending on what triggers it. If you have inflammation in the eye, for example, and that is why you are experiencing light sensitivity, then it’s important to treat that inflammation. In this case, you will be given steroids and other medications. If you are sensitive to light because of light colored eyes, or because your pupils are naturally larger, there are many sunglasses or lenses with UV protection that you can wear, for example you can wear polarised glasses, which reduce glare and dim the harsher light that enters your eye. Additionally, you can wear glasses that have a rose tint, which also helps to filter out harsher light and makes the symptoms of light sensitivity less severe. In severe cases of photophobia, prosthetic contact lenses are available to protect the eyes. Patients may feel less discomfort wearing these lenses since they reduce the amount of light entering the eye.
If you are experiencing any kind of light sensitivity, or especially if it is a new occurrence, or if it is progressing or affecting your vision, make sure you see our eye doctor. We spend time with each patient to identify the root cause of their light sensitivity so that we can prescribe the best treatment option for each patient. Schedule an eye exam by calling our office at (212) 752-6930 today.
At Amplify with Dr Wernick I was seeking help for seemingly intractable, probably age-related dryness. I've seen other doctors about it, and that has been helpful, but what he explained to me about it and the careful way he answered all my questions gave me so much more of a clear understanding of what is going on (and is not) that I am more able to implement all his and others' recommendations than I was before. And he gave me additional resources for further follow-up. I am most grateful.
Wow! This is a great Eye Care medical facility. I was thoroughly examined by Dr. Pinkhasov for over 2 hours. She made sure to check my eyes for pretty much everything and patiently explained proper care for my eyes. They definitely know how to provide great care and treat their patients right. Now I know why they have such a great reputation and been around for so long.
Dr. Kavner is a gifted diagnostician and orthoptic therapist. He treated me several decades ago for a condition similar to dyslexia. I was having migraines five times per week. I worked with him for about a year and I experienced tremendous improvement (down to 3-4 per year) that has lasted.
Dr. Kavner recommended two types of eye therapy for my daughter. One of them using bio-feedback. In just three sessions she is seeing considerably better. She shouted this morning: Ooh my God! I could not see these letters with my glasses on, and now I can see them without my glasses. If you are willing and able to invest in improving your vision, this is a good place to go to!
Dr. Kavner recommended two types of eye therapy for my daughter. One of them using bio-feedback. In just three sessions she is seeing considerably better. She shouted this morning: Ooh my God! I could not see these letters with my glasses on, and now I can see them without my glasses. If you are willing and able to invest in improving your vision, this is a good place to go to!
I have always found Dr Kavner's work, expertise and wisdom of the highest caliber. As one of the fathers of OT, occupational othomology, his depth and breadth of knowledge about the eyes' health and wellbeing of the patient is exemplary. Cannot say enough good things about him.
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