How to prepare for a telemedicine visit about Light Sensitivity (Photophobia) - Triage

Audience: adult

Light sensitivity, also known as photophobia, is when bright lights cause discomfort or pain in your eyes. It can happen for many reasons, such as eye strain, infections, migraines, or other health issues. A telemedicine visit can help you understand your symptoms and decide if you need further care. During the visit, a healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any other related problems. They may guide you on ways to reduce discomfort and when to seek in-person care. Preparing for your telemedicine appointment will help make the visit smooth and effective. Remember, if you experience severe symptoms like sudden vision loss or intense eye pain, seek emergency care immediately. Telemedicine is a helpful first step but does not replace a full eye exam when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden loss or change in vision — seek emergency care immediately.
• Severe eye pain or headache that does not improve — contact healthcare urgently.
• Eye redness with discharge, swelling, or fever — may indicate infection needing prompt evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of mild to moderate light sensitivity symptoms.
• Providing advice on symptom management and home care.
• Determining if in-person care is needed based on symptom description.
• Follow-up consultations for ongoing light sensitivity issues.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing detailed eye examinations or tests requiring specialized equipment.
• Diagnosing or treating severe eye conditions or emergencies.
• Prescribing certain medications that require physical assessment.
• Managing sudden vision loss or severe eye trauma.

What is Light Sensitivity (Photophobia)?

Light sensitivity, or photophobia, means your eyes hurt or feel uncomfortable when exposed to bright light. It can cause squinting, headaches, or eye watering. Many conditions can cause photophobia, including eye infections, dry eyes, migraines, or side effects from medications.

When to Use Telemedicine for Light Sensitivity

Telemedicine can help if your light sensitivity is mild or has just started. A healthcare provider can ask about your symptoms, look for related signs, and suggest home care tips. Telemedicine is useful for follow-up visits or when you cannot easily visit a clinic.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If your symptoms are severe, sudden, or worsening, you should see a healthcare provider in person. This includes sudden vision changes, intense eye pain, or signs of infection like redness and discharge. An in-person exam may be needed to check your eyes thoroughly.

How to Prepare for Your Telemedicine Visit

Before your visit, find a quiet, well-lit place with good internet connection. Have a list of your symptoms, when they started, and any medicines you take. Be ready to describe your symptoms clearly and answer questions about your health history.

What to Expect During the Telemedicine Visit

The provider will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any recent injuries or illnesses. They may guide you to do simple eye tests or show your eyes on camera. Based on this, they will suggest next steps or treatments.

After Your Telemedicine Visit

Follow the advice given, such as using eye drops or avoiding bright lights. Monitor your symptoms and note any changes. If symptoms worsen or new symptoms appear, seek in-person care promptly.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit room with a stable internet connection for your visit.
• Prepare a list of your symptoms, including when they started and how they affect you.
• Have a list of current medications and any recent health changes ready.
• Be ready to describe any recent eye injuries or exposures to bright lights or chemicals.
• Ensure your device camera and microphone work properly for the video call.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s advice on managing your symptoms at home.
• Use any recommended eye drops or medications as directed.
• Avoid bright lights and wear sunglasses if advised.
• Monitor your symptoms and note any changes or worsening.
• Schedule an in-person visit if symptoms do not improve or if red flags appear.

FAQs

What causes light sensitivity?

Light sensitivity can be caused by many things including eye strain, infections, migraines, dry eyes, or side effects from medications. Sometimes it is linked to other health conditions affecting the eyes or brain.

Can a telemedicine visit diagnose the cause of my photophobia?

Telemedicine can help assess your symptoms and guide you on next steps, but it cannot replace a full eye exam. Some causes require in-person evaluation and tests to diagnose properly.

What should I do if my light sensitivity suddenly gets worse?

If you experience sudden or severe worsening of symptoms, especially with vision changes or intense eye pain, seek emergency in-person medical care immediately.

Are there ways to reduce light sensitivity at home?

Yes. You can wear sunglasses indoors, avoid bright or flickering lights, take breaks from screens, and use lubricating eye drops if recommended by your provider.

Will I need to see a specialist for light sensitivity?

Depending on your symptoms and initial assessment, your healthcare provider may refer you to an eye specialist (ophthalmologist) for further evaluation and treatment.

Sources

1. Photophobia — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Light Sensitivity (Photophobia) — Mayo Clinic.
3. Eye Disorders and Diseases — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Photophobia: Causes, symptoms, and treatment — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have severe or worsening symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.