Does conjunctivitis cause light sensitivity?

Inflammation on the eye surface can make ordinary indoor or outdoor light feel uncomfortable. You may squint, water, or prefer dim surroundings while the irritation settles. Conjunctivitis may also cause redness, grittiness, itching, or discharge. The strength of light sensitivity varies with the cause and with how inflamed the eye is. Mild sensitivity can occur with conjunctivitis, but intense pain in bright light can point to a deeper eye problem and should not be assumed to be simple conjunctivitis.

Rest your eyes in comfortable lighting and wear ordinary sunglasses outdoors if they help; do not use them to ignore worsening symptoms. A cool, clean compress may soothe the eyelids. Wash your hands before touching your eyes, avoid rubbing, and pause contact lenses and eye makeup until symptoms improve. Do not use leftover prescription drops, particularly drops containing steroids, unless an eye professional has instructed you to do so.

Get prompt assessment for severe light sensitivity, notable eye pain, blurred or reduced vision, a cloudy-looking cornea, injury, or one-sided symptoms that are rapidly worsening. Contact-lens wearers should seek advice promptly if they have pain, sensitivity, or vision change. Sudden loss of vision or severe pain is an emergency. Arrange a review when symptoms do not begin improving or keep returning.

Ask whether the pattern fits viral, bacterial, or allergic conjunctivitis, whether contact lenses are safe to restart, and which changes in pain or vision require urgent help.