Eye infection and light sensitivity: what to know

Inflammation on the eye surface can make ordinary indoor light or sunlight feel harsh. Conjunctivitis may cause redness, watering, discharge, and a sandy sensation, although pronounced light sensitivity deserves attention. Light sensitivity can also occur with migraine, an irritated or scratched cornea, inflammation deeper inside the eye, or a serious infection affecting the nervous system. The symptom does not identify one diagnosis by itself. Note whether discomfort affects one or both eyes, whether it improves in darkness, and whether pain or vision change accompanies it.

Rest in a comfortably dim room and use sunglasses outdoors; avoid pressing or rubbing the eye. Wash your hands before applying any prescribed medicine. Remove contact lenses and do not wear them again until a clinician confirms that it is safe. Avoid borrowed, expired, or leftover eye drops, especially numbing drops. If headache, nausea, or visual patterns accompany the symptom, record the timing and possible triggers to discuss with a clinician. Hydration and regular rest may help some migraine-related symptoms but do not replace an eye examination when the eye itself is painful or red.

Seek urgent assessment for severe or worsening eye pain, reduced or blurred vision, a very red eye, unequal pupils, injury, chemical exposure, or light sensitivity that makes it difficult to keep the eye open. Fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, confusion, vomiting, or a new rash alongside light sensitivity requires emergency care. Contact-lens wearers with pain or vision change should be assessed urgently because the cornea may be involved.

Ask whether the light sensitivity is coming from the eye surface, migraine, or another condition, and whether you need an urgent eye examination. Tell the clinician about contact lenses, headache, fever, discharge, recent injury, new medicines, and any change in vision. Ask what symptoms should prompt a return visit.