Your eyes are very important. Many people don't realise just how valuable their vision is until it starts to fail. I was one of these people. I didn't give a second thought to my eyes or keeping them healthy. However, one day, I noticed that I couldn't see as clearly as I used to. I struggle to read the small print on paperwork and sometimes I would find that my vision would become unfocused. I visited the optometrist, and he assessed my eyes. I've now been prescribed contact lenses which really help me. I hope the articles I have posted here help you.
Light sensitivity is a relatively common complaint optometrists deal with. Light sensitivity can occur with natural and artificial light and can leave your eyes feeling strained. Some people also experience blurred vision, dizziness and headaches along with light sensitivity. There are a number of underlying problems that lead to the development of light sensitivity, and your optometrist will aim to diagnose the cause in order to resolve the problem. Here are a few possible causes of light sensitivity.
Type 2 Diabetes
Uncontrolled type 2 diabetes can have a significant impact on the health of your eyes. Continuously high blood sugar levels can damage the protein structure of your lens and cause light to feel brighter and more powerful when entering your eye. Other eye symptoms of those with type 2 diabetes include reduced night vision and the dampening down of bright colours. Getting your blood sugar levels under control can reverse many of the eye problems associated with type 2 diabetes.
Corneal Abrasion
Your cornea, which is the transparent layer on the front of your eye, protects your eye and helps to focus light as enters your eye. Even a small scratch on your cornea can alter the angle that light enters your eye, and this can cause the light to seem too strong, which leads to light sensitivity. Treatment for corneal abrasion can include antibiotic eye drops and resting the affected eye by covering it with an eye bandage, which can promote healing.
Uveitis
Blood supply to the retina at the rear of your eye can be impaired when the middle part of your eye, known as the uvea, becomes inflamed. This condition, known as uveitis, can occur due to having an underlying inflammatory or autoimmune condition. Corticosteroids are often prescribed to treat uveitis, and retinal detachment can occur when the condition is not treated.
Overactive Thyroid
Abnormal antibodies produced by your immune system can trigger an overactive thyroid. These antibodies can lead to inflammation developing in the delicate tissues of your eyes, which leads to an increase in eye pressure. This pressure can make your eyes extra sensitive and can also lead to blurred vision. Medication can bring your thyroid hormones back into balance, and this medication may be required for a short period or permanently.
It may be tempting to ignore sensitivity to light, but there can be a serious cause behind it, and long-term damage to your eyes could occur if the problem is ignored. If you're experiencing sensitivity to light, schedule an eye test as soon as possible. Reach out to a local clinic, such as Zacharia Naumann Optometrists, to learn more.
Share22 June 2023
