4 Ways To Manage Light Sensitivity

Health & Medical Articles

Light sensitivity can be a temporary or chronic problem that is often associated with migraines, concussions, or eye disorders. Managing light sensitivity is usually easier when you are outdoors, but finding ways to decrease the pain indoors is another matter. There are several ways you can reduce the effects of light inside your home, while continuing to enjoy your favorite activities.

Change Indoor Lighting

Avoiding light altogether can do more harm than good. Wearing sunshades while indoors can decrease your exposure to light, but your eyes will become more sensitive when it is time to take off your shades. Consider replacing your current lightbulbs with lower wattage bulbs. Most people use 60-watt lightbulbs for their indoor needs. Start with a 40-watt lightbulb to determine if the dimmer light causes less discomfort while providing adequate lighting for your needs.

Use lightbulbs that create a soft white, purple or blue hue of light. You can distinguish these bulbs from basic white or yellow bulbs by the color of the glass. The glass of the lightbulbs are tinted or have frosted glass, which helps diffuse some of the emitted light. If you have any lamps or light fixtures without a shade, buy one. This is another way to help diffuse light and make it softer. Some light fixtures, such as bathroom lighting and chandeliers, can benefit from frosted glass coverings that act as a lampshade.

Modify Your Living Space

Ideally, the decor in your home should not increase light reflection. The color scheme inside your home, mirrors and reflective surfaces can be small details that make a big difference in making the environment more comfortable when you have light sensitivity. If you have white walls inside your home, consider painting the walls a dark color or using a dark-colored wallpaper to absorb light inside your home.

Furthermore, if you choose to paint your walls a different color, keep the paint matte to avoid unnecessary glare. Similarly, you may want to purchase furniture covers and bedding in a dark color. Glass or metal furniture can be equally bothersome. If you cannot replace an item, such as a glass table, use a tablecloth to cover the reflective surface.

Reduce Glare

Glare from computer monitors, televisions and electronic devices can make the light appear harsher. Invest in screen protectors that are designed to reduce glare. You can purchase individual screen protectors for various electronic devices in your home, in addition to reducing both the contrast and brightness on your devices.

Similarly, if you wear glasses or sunshades, look for lenses that have a glare reduction coating. Even if you do not need glasses for vision correction, consider purchasing a non-prescription pair from your local optician, but with a glare reduction coating. These glasses can be appropriate for using indoors, and in low-light situations outdoors. Consider purchasing non-prescription glasses that come in a variety of tints, which filter out specific types of light. You may find that you need different tints for various situations, such as sunlight or different types of artificial lighting.

Consider Prosthetic Contact Lenses

When you have tried various methods of reducing light sensitivity indoors, and you cannot reduce the pain, consider speaking with your ophthalmologist to determine if you are a good candidate for prosthetic contact lenses. In severe cases of light sensitivity, these special types of contact lenses can be used to filter out more light before it reaches your eye. Prosthetic lenses are most often used if you have an eye condition or damage that only affects one eye.

Prolonged or severe cases of light sensitivity are not only painful, but can cause disruption even when you are indoors. Reducing harsh light and glare can make your home more comfortable without confining you to a mostly dark environment.

For more information, contact an experienced eye doctor at a clinic like Advanced Retinal Institute Inc.

23 February 2015