photophobia; light sensitivity

Introduction

An abnormal intolerance of light.

Etiology

• eye disease
  • iritis, uveitis
  • burns to eye
  • corneal abrasion, corneal ulceration
  • chalazion, episcleritis, glaucoma
  • dry eyes; xerophthalmia; keratitis sicca (light sensitivity)
• migraine
• meningitis
• pharmaceuticals
  • mydriatic agents (dilation of the pupils)
  • other: amphetamines, atropine, cocaine, cyclopentolate, idoxuridine, phenylephrine, scopolamine, trifluridine, tropicamide, vidarabine
• eye irritation: contact lenses
• traumatic brain injury

Complications

• RED FLAGS
  • eye pain, itching
  • headache
  • nausea
  • neck stiffness
  • blurred vision
  • eye injury
  • red eye
  • swelling
  • dizziness
  • paresthesia
  • hearing impairment

Management

• general
  • avoid sunlight
  • close eyes
  • dark glasses
  • darkening the room
• specific treatment for specific etiology

More general terms

• sign/symptom

More specific terms

• photophonophobia