In summary, photophobia, or light sensitivity, can be defined as an abnormal sensitivity to light, which causes pain, discomfort, and even visual disturbances. This can range greatly, from mild sensitivity to complete aversion to all light, including both natural and synthetic. 

If you’re wondering how to treat light sensitivity after a concussion, the answer is not as simple as suggesting potential solutions. Light sensitivity treatment varies greatly based on the severity of the blow and the affected area of the brain. 

When a blow causes light sensitivity along with a concussion, it means that the impact has damaged some of the parts of the brain responsible for regulating how the brain processes light. 

How the Brain Processes Light After Injury

TBI light sensitivity occurs when there is a disruption in the way that the brain works. Light is normally processed through a complex pathway that starts in the eye and ends in the brain cortex. 

A TBI can change your brain structure and create misalignments throughout, and this includes the biological systems that are responsible for regulating light. When this impairment occurs, it’s possible for the brain to react abnormally to common stimuli such as light, resulting in eye strain, dizziness, and headaches. 

Signs that You Have Concussion Light Sensitivity

Light sensitivity due to a concussion feels a little different. Here are some telltale signs. 

• Discomfort with both natural and artificial light
• The pain forces you to wear sunglasses indoors
• You experience visual fatigue when reading
• Screens cause headaches, even when not used for prolonged periods
• You constantly experience dizziness or an overwhelming sensation

What Causes Post-Concussion Photophobia?

Here’s a more detailed list of what can cause photophobia after a concussion. 

• Visual processing disruptions that affect the retina, optic nerve, and/or brain cortex
• Slowed pupil reaction time
• Inflammation and neurochemical imbalance
• Damage to the autonomic nervous system 
• Vestibular system issues that originate in the ear

How to Improve Concussion Light Sensitivity

Have you been experiencing concussion light sensitivity for a few weeks? If so, you should seek medical attention right away. 

The reason for this is that persistent, ongoing, or worsening TBI symptoms can be a sign of a more severe injury, like brain bleeds and skull fractures. If your symptoms have not improved at all and it’s been a few weeks since the blow, make sure to see a doctor to discuss these signs. 

Here are a few tips to help you improve your symptoms. 

Control Your Environment

Start by dimming lights at home, avoiding fluorescent lighting, and limiting screen time. Small changes, like closing blinds or using soft bulbs, can make a big difference in reducing daily symptoms.

Add Blue Light and Other Filters

Blue light can intensify concussion symptoms. Try screen filters, blue light–blocking glasses, and software that adjusts brightness. These tools can ease eye strain and improve comfort with digital devices.

Vision Therapy and Rehabilitation

Vision therapy helps retrain your brain to process light more comfortably. Specialists use guided eye movements and focus exercises that restore control, reduce symptoms, and improve overall light tolerance.

Get the Support You Need to Overcome Your Light Sensitivity

Suffering from a concussion, light sensitivity is no joke—this can become a chronic condition that affects your every waking moment. Photophobia after a concussion is a common symptom because strong traumas can temporarily change how the brain processes light. 

While TBI light sensitivity is often short-term, there are instances where the damage lingers and requires additional treatment. It’s important to keep an eye out for additional symptoms like ringing in the ears, dizziness, and loss of balance, as these may be signs that there is more severe damage. 

If you have light sensitivity as a result of a blow to the head, the most important thing is getting medical attention and making a full recovery. In the case that your injuries are due to the actions or negligence of someone else, you may be entitled to compensation for all your losses, including medical bills and lost wages. 

Contact Brain Injury Law of Seattle today, and our team of TBI light sensitivity experts will be glad to help. Contact us today!

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