Eye sensitivity to light cannot only be uncomfortable, but it can also trigger painful sensations and terrible migraines. This phenomenon is called photophobia. While for many, photophobia affects both eyes, there cases of it only affecting one eye. This is unilateral photophobia. If either of these conditions has impacted your quality of life or continued to cause you pain, then it is time to seek treatment from an Orange County eye doctor.
Causes of Unilateral Photophobia
As mentioned above, eye sensitivity to light in only one eye is rare. Rare doesn’t mean completely impossible though. In cases where it does not affect both eyes equally, there are some potential causes worth looking at.
Physical Trauma
One cause of unilateral photophobia is sustaining physical trauma to only one eye. This can be something as simple as accidentally scratching it, or something more obvious, like getting hit with a baseball. Any physical trauma that directly affects either of the eyes should immediately be checked thoroughly by a medical professional. The longer you wait, the more this external force can cause irreversible damage.
Eye Disorders
Another factor that could cause eye sensitivity to light is an eye disorder. Common eye disorders include cataracts, glaucoma, retinal disorders, and conjunctivitis. With each of these conditions prevention through regular checkups is extremely important. Unlike a physical trauma, the signs should be present to let you know this could be a possibility.
Neurological Conditions
One of the causes of unilateral photophobia that many may not initially think of is certain neurological conditions. Since the light-transmitting through the eye goes directly to the brain, there may be an issue there. If an eye doctor cant’ find anything wrong, a neurologist may be the next logical step.
Foreign Objects in the Eye
While the eyelashes play a vital role in preventing debris from entering the eyes, occasionally foreign objects can get lodged in the eye causing irritation. This can be especially detrimental if the foreign object has harmful chemicals, like eyelash glue or certain face washes. Be as careful as possible when dealing with this type of foreign object.
Infection
If an infection happens to the cornea, iris, or other important components of the eye, then light sensitivity in one eye can be a direct result.
The best thing to do is to schedule a visit to Dr. Ghosheh for a thorough check-up and a diagnosis so that you can begin treatment as soon as possible. Contact Advanced Eye Medical to have Dr. Ghosheh look at your eye sensitivity to light.
Symptoms to Look for Regarding Unilateral Photophobia
While eye sensitivity to light presents itself as a painful or burning sensation to some, there are other symptoms to be aware of. Here are a few to look out for:
- Frequent eye strain, especially without incident or cause
- Chronic squinting from sensitivity
- Inability to fully open one or both of the eyes
- Inflammation in or around the eye
- Involuntary blinking
- Excessive tear production
- Redness or signs of infection
In some cases, even symptoms like nausea and lightheadedness can be indicators of light sensitivity. These are not by themselves symptoms but will be in addition to one, or some, of the symptoms above. If you have been experiencing any of those symptoms related to eye sensitivity, then it is time to visit Advanced Eye Medical. With an incredible team of doctors, amazing reviews, and years of experience, we are the team to trust with treating your light sensitivity.