fotofóbiának

Fotofóbia, a term originating from Greek words meaning "light" and "fear," refers to an abnormal intolerance to light. It is a symptom rather than a disease itself, and can manifest in varying degrees of severity. Individuals experiencing photophobia may feel discomfort, pain, or even distress when exposed to ordinary levels of light, whether it be natural sunlight or artificial illumination.

The underlying causes of photophobia are diverse. It is commonly associated with eye conditions such as migraines, conjunctivitis, uveitis, keratitis, and dry eye syndrome. Certain neurological conditions, including meningitis and encephalitis, can also trigger light sensitivity. Additionally, it can be a side effect of some medications or a symptom following eye surgery or trauma.

Symptoms of photophobia extend beyond mere discomfort. People may squint or close their eyes tightly in bright light, experience headaches, nausea, and a burning or stinging sensation in their eyes. In some cases, the sensitivity can be so profound that even dim lighting is problematic, leading to significant disruption in daily activities and quality of life.

Diagnosis of photophobia involves a thorough medical history and a comprehensive eye examination by an ophthalmologist or optometrist. Treatment strategies are aimed at addressing the root cause of the light sensitivity. This may include managing underlying eye conditions, treating infections, adjusting medications, or implementing protective measures like wearing sunglasses, hats, or using light-filtering lenses.