Photophobia

Photophobia means sensitivity to light.  It can be due to many reasons such as a temporarily problem as in a corneal abrasion or uveitis which is an inflammation of the central coat of the eye that supplies blood to other parts of the eyes.

Photophobia can occur due to more long term problems such as Keratoconus, which is a bulging of the cornea.  At times that causes scarring.  Pellucid Marginal Degeneration and Fuch’s Dystrophy are other corneal problems that can produce sensitivity to light .  Other reasons include corneal scarring due to a birth defect or due to a mechanical or chemical trauma.  

Albinism is a condition where there is little pigmentation (color) in the skin.  Commonly individuals with albinism have blue irises and there is usually little pigment in the retina that captures light.  This is the reason for the sensitivity to light.  

A corneal graft after a corneal transplant can become cloudy and cause sensitivity to light.  Other reasons for photophobia can include refractive surgery such as LASIK, PRK, or RK that has not given the intended result.

A corneal ulcer can also produce a corneal scar which results in sensitivity to light.   

Polarized eyeglass lenses may give relief and at times, if the problem is severe, a custom prosthetic contact lens specially colored to look like your own eyes may be needed. Prosthetic contact lenses can reduce the amount of light that enters the eye to make your eyes more comfortable.