What should you know about tinted contacts for light sensitivity?

Tinted contact lenses may reduce glare for some people with light sensitivity, but they do not treat its underlying cause. A proper eye examination helps establish whether lenses are suitable and whether the sensitivity reflects irritation, migraine, or another problem.

Light sensitivity, also called photophobia, may feel like discomfort, squinting, watering, or a need to avoid bright rooms. It can occur with dry or irritated eyes, Conjunctivitis, or Migraine. New or intense sensitivity with headache, fever, neck stiffness, vomiting, confusion, or a marked change in vision needs medical attention because Meningitis and other urgent conditions can also involve sensitivity to light.

Have an optometrist or ophthalmologist assess your eyes before ordering tinted contacts. A fitted lens needs the correct prescription, size, material, and tint; a lens that does not fit can irritate the cornea. Wash and dry your hands before handling lenses, follow the recommended wear and cleaning instructions, and never share lenses or use saliva to wet them. Remove them if pain, redness, discharge, or blurred vision develops.

Get urgent medical help for sudden severe light sensitivity with a severe headache, fever, neck stiffness, confusion, fainting, or new weakness. Arrange prompt eye care for significant eye pain, a sudden vision change, marked redness, or symptoms after an eye injury. Do not use tinted lenses to delay assessment of a new or worsening symptom.

Ask which tint and lens type, if any, fit your eyes; whether glasses would be safer for your symptoms; how long to wear the lenses; and which signs mean you should remove them and seek review.