What is light sensitivity?
Light sensitivity, also known as photophobia, is a condition where the eyes are overly sensitive to light. It can cause discomfort, pain, and excessive squinting or blinking when exposed to normal levels of light. Some common causes of light sensitivity include:
- Dry eyes – Insufficient tear production can lead to irritated, light-sensitive eyes.
- Corneal abrasions – Scratches or injuries to the clear, outer layer of the eye make it more sensitive.
- Conjunctivitis (pink eye) – Inflammation of the conjunctiva lining of the eye leads to light sensitivity.
- Migraines – Photophobia is a common symptom of migraine headaches.
- Cataracts – Clouding in the lens of the eye scatters light abnormally.
- Eye injuries – Damage to the eye from trauma, infection, or surgery can increase light sensitivity.
- Some medications – Certain antibiotics, antihistamines, blood pressure medications, and more may have photophobia as a side effect.
In some cases, the exact cause of light sensitivity is unknown. Those with systemic conditions like lupus, multiple sclerosis, albinism, and diabetes are at higher risk. Intracranial hypertension, corneal dystrophies, and sensory processing disorders can also contribute to abnormal light sensitivity.
How do tinted contact lenses help with light sensitivity?
Tinted contact lenses are designed to filter out some wavelengths of light before they enter the eye. This helps reduce glare, brightness, and photophobia symptoms for light-sensitive individuals. Here’s how they work:
- Reduce light transmission – The tinted lens itself blocks a portion of ambient light from passing through to the cornea and retina.
- Absorb UV rays – Many tinted lenses offer UV protection by absorbing harmful ultraviolet light.
- Decrease glare – The tint cuts down on reflected/scattered light that causes discomforting glare.
- Improve contrast – Increased color saturation from the tint may enhance contrast and reduce eye strain.
By limiting overall light exposure and glare, tinted contact lenses allow light-sensitive eyes to open wider and function more comfortably. The reduction in squinting and blinking also helps maintain clearer vision.
What types and colors of tinted contact lenses are available?
Tinted contact lenses come in a variety of opacity levels, colors, and specialty designs to suit different needs:
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Visibility tinted | Very light tints that don’t drastically change eye color. Subtly reduce light transmission for mild sensitivity. |
| Enhancement tinted | Medium tints that noticeably alter light eye colors. Offer more light filtering for moderate sensitivity. |
| Opaque tinted | Heavy, darkened tints that block most light. Help severe photophobia but limit visibility of the eye. |
| Patterned | Block portions of light with printed dots, swirls, and other patterns. Reduce light while keeping some of the natural eye color visible. |
| Limbal ring | Lens has a colored ring around the edge to subtly enhance or change the limbal ring. Light tint for mild cases. |
| Pupil aperture | Central pupil area is completely clear. Opaque tint surrounds pupil to filter peripheral light only. |
| Scleral | Large lenses that extend beyond the cornea to also cover the whites of the eyes. Provide additional light blocking. |
The most common tint colors for light sensitivity are:
- Gray – Neutral hue that doesn’t alter color perception much. Subtly reduces light transmission.
- Brown – Natural, enhancing color for lighter eyes. Cuts down on glare.
- Green – Darker green tints counter redness and filter bright light effectively.
- Blue – Blue light waves are calm and soothing. A bluish tint can ease eyestrain.
- Hazel/amber – Warm, golden yellow-brown tones for enhancing natural eye colors.
- Violet – Uncommon, but violet hues block more blue light that can cause eye fatigue.
What are the benefits of tinted contact lenses for light sensitivity?
Compared to other options like wearing sunglasses indoors, tinted contacts have a number of advantages for managing photophobia symptoms:
- Improved comfort – Allow you to keep eyes open wider and see clearly in bright light.
- Discreet – Hard for others to notice you are wearing an eye aid.
- Do not affect peripheral vision – Unlike sunglasses, contacts don’t block side/peripheral light.
- Hands-free – Don’t have to hold, switch out, or keep track of a separate eyewear accessory.
- Can be worn anytime – Help manage light sensitivity day or night.
- Customizable correction – Many brands offer prescriptions and adjustability.
- liberty to change up eye color/enhancement for cosmetic reasons as well!
For those struggling with chronic light sensitivity, tinted contact lenses can vastly improve comfort and quality of life. The ability to freely open eyes and clearly focus in bright conditions without pain or squinting is life-changing.
What are the risks and side effects of tinted contacts?
While tinted contacts have advantages, there are some potential downsides to consider as well:
- Reduced visibility in low light – Heavy tints can make it harder to see in dim conditions.
- Eye health risks if not properly cared for – Contacts must be properly cleaned, stored, and replaced to avoid infection risk.
- May not be breathable enough for long wear – Can feel uncomfortable if worn for too many hours continuously.
- Possibility of corneal abrasions – Some users experience scratched eyes from contacts.
- Reduced field of vision compared to glasses – Contacts only filter light entering through the pupil.
- Higher cost than glasses – Brand name colored lenses are a significant investment.
- Might still need sunglasses at times – Very bright sunlight may require additional protection.
It’s important to follow your eye doctor’s recommendations for safe contact lens use. Schedule regular eye exams to check for any corneal damage or infections. And give eyes a break by wearing glasses at times too.
Who should avoid tinted contact lenses?
Though they can be beneficial for many, tinted contact lenses may not be suitable for everyone struggling with light sensitivity. They are generally not recommended for:
- Those with chronic dry eye – May further irritate already dry eyes.
- People with corneal disease – Greater risk of abrasions and damage.
- Contact lens over-wearers – Higher infection risk if contacts are worn too long.
- Those with vision impairment – Contacts may worsen visibility issues.
- Children – Young eyes are still developing so consult an optometrist first.
- People unable to follow care guidelines – Increase risks if not able to properly use contacts.
- Those allergic to contacts – Allergy may cause significant irritation.
Talk to your eye doctor about the pros and cons of colored contacts specifically for your eyes and degree of light sensitivity. Other treatment options like prescription sunglasses, photochromic lenses, or hat visors may be recommended instead.
What questions should I ask my eye doctor before getting tinted contacts?
It’s important to discuss your options and any concerns thoroughly with an optometrist or ophthalmologist experienced in fitting colored contact lenses. Here are some key questions to ask:
- Will tinted contacts adequately help my degree of light sensitivity?
- What specific lens opacity and color do you recommend for my eyes and needs?
- Should I get enhancement/cosmetic tints or stick to medical visibility tints only?
- Do you recommend any particular brand or type of tinted contact lens?
- What solutions and care system should I use with the lenses?
- How often do I need to replace the contacts? What is the typical wearing schedule you suggest?
- What are the risks and restrictions I need to be aware of?
- What can I do to maximize comfort and minimize infection risk?
- Will insurance cover any of the cost of tinted contacts for medical use?
Thoroughly understanding proper use and care guidelines for your tinted contact lenses is key for ensuring a successful and safe experience. Follow up regularly with your eye care provider too.
Conclusion
Tinted contact lenses can be an excellent option for managing chronic light sensitivity and photophobia symptoms. The variety of lens colors and opacities allow you to customize the degree of light filtering based on your needs. Reduced glare, UV protection, and the ability to see clearly and comfortably even in bright light make them a popular choice. However,contacts do require diligent care and maintenance. Discuss your specific case thoroughly with an eye doctor to determine if tinted contact lenses are suitable for you. With expert guidance and responsible use, contacts can safely minimize light sensitivity difficulties and improve your daily functioning.
