When the Light Is Too Bright

Have you ever noticed people with blue eyes have a harder time on sunny days? People with light-colored eyes are more sensitive to bright light, particularly sunlight. The reason? Their eyes don’t have as much pigment. Darker colored eyes contain more pigment that protect against bright lights. Other people can have photophobia – light sensitivity – as a result of an eye infection or irritation. Someone suffering from a virus or a severe headache may also be sensitive to light. According to AllAboutVision.com, common causes of photophobia include corneal abrasion, uveitis and central nervous system disorders such as meningitis. People with no eye pigment (albinism) or a color deficiency (only see shades of gray) typically suffer from photophobia. The best treatment is to address the underlying cause, such as the eye infection. In cases where that’s not possible the best course of action is to wear sunglasses and hats when outdoors. In extreme cases, according to the AllAboutVision.com article, prosthetic contact lenses can reduce the amount of light that enters the eye.