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

Audience: pediatric

Light sensitivity, also known as photophobia, is when a child’s eyes are uncomfortable or hurt in bright light. It can happen for many reasons, such as eye infections, headaches, or other health issues. A telemedicine visit can help you and your healthcare provider talk about your child’s symptoms and decide the next steps. During the visit, the provider will ask about when the light sensitivity started, how severe it is, and if there are other symptoms like pain, redness, or changes in vision. Telemedicine can be a good first step to get advice quickly, but sometimes an in-person exam is needed to check the eyes closely. Preparing for the visit by gathering information and having a quiet, well-lit space will help make the appointment smoother. If your child has serious symptoms like sudden vision loss or severe pain, seek emergency care right away.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden or severe vision loss — seek emergency care immediately.
• Severe eye pain or injury — go to an emergency room or urgent care.
• Signs of eye infection such as pus, swelling, or fever — seek prompt medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Mild to moderate light sensitivity without severe symptoms.
• Initial assessment and history taking about symptoms.
• Advice on home care and when to seek further care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe eye pain or injury needing urgent treatment.
• Sudden vision loss or significant changes in vision.
• Signs of serious infection requiring physical examination.

What is Light Sensitivity (Photophobia)?

Photophobia means your child’s eyes are sensitive to light and may hurt, feel uncomfortable, or cause squinting. It is not a disease itself but a symptom that can come from many causes, including eye infections, allergies, migraines, or other health problems.

When to Use Telemedicine for Light Sensitivity

Telemedicine can help you talk to a healthcare provider quickly if your child has mild to moderate light sensitivity without severe symptoms. It is useful for discussing symptoms, getting advice, and deciding if your child needs an in-person exam or urgent care.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

Before the visit, write down when the light sensitivity started, what makes it better or worse, and any other symptoms like headache, eye redness, or vision changes. Have your child in a quiet, well-lit room with good internet connection. Keep any medications or eye drops your child is using nearby to discuss.

What to Expect During the Visit

The healthcare provider will ask questions about your child’s symptoms and medical history. They may guide you to look at your child’s eyes on camera and ask you to describe what you see. Based on this, they will suggest next steps, which may include home care advice or a referral for an in-person eye exam.

When to Seek In-Person or Emergency Care

If your child has severe eye pain, sudden vision loss, eye injury, or signs of infection like pus or swelling, you should seek in-person or emergency care immediately. Telemedicine is not suitable for these urgent situations.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note when the light sensitivity started and how it affects your child.
• List any other symptoms your child has, like headaches or eye redness.
• Have a quiet, well-lit room ready for the video call.
• Ensure a stable internet connection and a charged device.
• Keep any current medications or eye drops handy to discuss.
• Prepare to describe your child’s eye appearance and behavior during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s advice on home care or medications.
• Schedule an in-person eye exam if recommended.
• Watch for any worsening symptoms or new red flags.
• Contact healthcare immediately if red flags develop after the visit.
• Keep notes on symptom changes to share at follow-up visits.

FAQs

What causes light sensitivity in children?

Light sensitivity can be caused by eye infections, allergies, dry eyes, migraines, or other health issues. Sometimes it happens after an eye injury or with certain medications.

Can telemedicine diagnose the cause of photophobia?

Telemedicine can help gather information and guide next steps, but it often cannot fully diagnose the cause without a physical eye exam.

What should I do if my child’s light sensitivity gets worse?

If your child’s symptoms worsen, especially with pain, vision changes, or signs of infection, seek in-person medical care promptly.

Is photophobia dangerous?

Photophobia itself is a symptom, not a disease. It can signal underlying problems that may need treatment, so it’s important to get medical advice.

How can I help my child at home with light sensitivity?

Keep your child in dim or soft lighting, avoid bright screens, and use sunglasses if needed. Follow any specific advice your healthcare provider gives you.

Sources

1. Photophobia — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Light Sensitivity (Photophobia) — Mayo Clinic.
3. Eye Conditions: Photophobia — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Photophobia in Children: Causes and Care — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

This information is for educational and triage purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care. If your child has severe symptoms or you are concerned about their health, seek immediate medical attention.