If you have keratoconus, you may experience more than just blurred or distorted vision—many patients also struggle with light sensitivity (photophobia). This can make everyday activities like driving, working on a computer, or even being outside on a sunny day challenging. But why does keratoconus cause light sensitivity, and what can you do about it?
At Family Vision Solutions in Spring, TX, we specialize in advanced eye care and specialty contact lenses to help patients manage keratoconus effectively. Let’s explore why photophobia happens in keratoconus and how to find relief.
Why Does Keratoconus Cause Light Sensitivity?
Keratoconus is a progressive corneal condition that causes the normally round cornea to thin and bulge into a cone-like shape. This irregular corneal surface leads to:
- Increased light scatter – Light does not focus properly, creating glare and halos, especially around bright lights at night.
- Higher-order aberrations (HOAs) – These distortions in vision make bright lights appear overwhelming.
- Corneal nerve sensitivity – Changes in corneal structure may heighten sensitivity to light.
- Dry eye symptoms – Many keratoconus patients also have dry eyes, which can make light sensitivity worse.
Managing Light Sensitivity with Keratoconus
If you struggle with photophobia due to keratoconus, several strategies can help:
1. Specialty Contact Lenses for Keratoconus
Regular soft contact lenses often don’t work well for keratoconus, but scleral lenses and other specialty options can help:
- Scleral Lenses – These large-diameter lenses vault over the cornea, providing a smooth optical surface that reduces glare and light scatter.
- WaveDyn® Scleral Lenses – These custom-designed lenses correct higher-order aberrations for even sharper vision and less sensitivity to light.
- Hybrid or Gas Permeable Lenses – These can also improve vision and reduce light sensitivity compared to standard contacts or glasses.
2. Tinted Lenses & Light-Filtering Glasses
Certain lenses can help reduce glare and photophobia:
- FL-41 Tinted Glasses – A rose-colored tint designed to filter out the most irritating wavelengths of light.
- Neurolens® Technology – Designed to relieve eye strain and light sensitivity, especially for those who experience headaches or digital eye fatigue.
3. Dry Eye Treatment
Since dry eye can worsen light sensitivity, treating it is key. We offer:
- Regenerative treatments like Prokera® amniotic membranes to heal the corneal surface.
- Light therapy with Celluma® red light treatment to reduce inflammation and improve tear production.
4. UV Protection & Lifestyle Adjustments
- Wear polarized sunglasses outdoors to reduce glare.
- Use blue light filters on screens to prevent digital eye strain.
- Adjust indoor lighting—soft, warm lighting can be more comfortable than harsh fluorescents.
Find Relief for Light Sensitivity at Family Vision Solutions
If you have keratoconus and struggle with light sensitivity, you’re not alone. At Family Vision Solutions in Spring, TX, Dr. Randy Charrier and Dr. Sarah Brown specialize in custom scleral lenses, advanced myopia management, and innovative dry eye treatments to help improve your comfort and vision.
