If you notice that bright sunlight or indoor lighting makes your eyes ache or water, your discomfort may be more than temporary irritation. It could be dry eye syndrome. Many people try home remedies for dry eyes or light sensitivity without finding lasting relief, not realizing there are targeted treatments that can help.
At Family Eye Care, we offer advanced dry treatment in Bristol to target the underlying issues, helping you feel more comfortable. Our team can evaluate your eyes and recommend personalized solutions designed to address both dryness and light sensitivity.
Why dry eye can cause sensitivity to light
Light sensitivity, or photophobia, is often linked to dry eye. When your tear film is insufficient or unstable, your eyes become irritated and more reactive to light. You may notice:
- Squinting in bright environments
- Discomfort under fluorescent or LED lighting
- Headaches triggered by visual strain
- Red or watery eyes
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses for long periods
This link is often missed, which is why many people deal with discomfort for months or even years before exploring professional treatment.
Advanced treatments for lasting dry eye relief
A comprehensive eye exam helps identify why your eyes are dry or sensitive to light. Our optometrists evaluate tear production, eyelid health, and any other factors that could be contributing to your symptoms. From there, we can create a personalized plan that combines in-office treatments and at-home strategies.
In-office treatment can include:
- ZEST treatment to cleanse and rejuvenate your eyelids
- Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy to improve tear production
- Radiofrequency to restore eyelid function
Instead of just soothing your eyes temporarily, these solutions tackle the underlying issues to help you feel better longer.
Tips to manage dry eye and light sensitivity
These tips can complement your in-office treatments, helping you get the most relief from dry eye and light sensitivity:
- Use lubricating eye drops recommended by your optometrist
- Wear sunglasses outdoors and consider blue-light filtering lenses indoors
- Take regular breaks from screens to reduce eye strain
- Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet rich in omega-3s
- Follow your prescribed dry eye treatment plan consistently
Other causes of light sensitivity
While dry eye is a common reason for light sensitivity, it isn’t the only one. Understanding other potential causes can help you and our optometrists pinpoint the right solution:
- Migraines or chronic headaches – Light often triggers or worsens migraine pain.
- Eye inflammation or infection – Conditions like conjunctivitis or uveitis can make eyes more sensitive.
- Corneal issues – Scratches, abrasions, or contact lens irritation can heighten light sensitivity.
- Medication side effects – Some prescriptions or over-the-counter drugs can make the eyes more reactive.
- Post-surgical changes – Eye surgeries, including LASIK or cataract surgery, may temporarily increase sensitivity.
Persistent irritation is a sign to get checked—an eye exam can reveal the root cause and guide personalized treatment.
Improve comfort and protect your vision
Addressing dry eye and light sensitivity can significantly improve your daily comfort and quality of life. From easing irritation to making screen time and outdoor activities more enjoyable, proper treatment can help your eyes feel healthier and more resilient.
Schedule a visit at Family Eye Care in Bristol to explore dry eye treatment tailored to your needs.