Addressing Light Sensitivity After a Concussion

Many of us experience some form of light sensitivity, especially after a concussion, which can make navigating multiple environments challenging and uncomfortable. It can be a barrier in returning to school, work, and driving. Research does not support avoidance of light, but rather gradual exposure. Light exposure plays a vital role in our sleep/wake cycle. Avoiding lights can lead to sleep disruption, increased photosensitivity, and fatigue.

Here are some tips to address light sensitivity:

Wear sunglasses outdoors to protect from strong UV rays

Wear a hat indoors to block overhead lights if needed

Change phone settings to “night mode”

Wear blue blocker lenses at night only

  • There are several types of glasses at various price points available for those who need blue blocker lenses for nighttime wear. The following list of glasses are not the only ones available and not everyone reports relief with glasses:
  1. Theraspecs: Theraspecs are marketed as migraine-relief glasses with light-filtering lenses. They have a variety of styles with indoor, outdoor and prescription lenses available. Price: $99 and up
  2. Eye Buy Direct: Eye Buy Direct offers options for digital screen protection glasses that filter out blue light. They can be made with or without a prescription and are not tinted unless viewing a screen when a slight purple/blue tint will appear. Price: $25 and up
  3. Target and Amazon: Target and Amazon both offer affordable options. Search ‘light sensitivity glasses’ in the search bar on these websites for a variety of light-filtering glasses. Price: $25 and up

Dim light on screens and gradually increase brightness over time

Progressively increase screen time

Try using over-the-counter eye drops for dry eyes

If you need help addressing light sensitivity or any other concussion symptoms, the concussion experts at Sheltering Arms can help. Learn more about our concussion program by clicking here, or call (804) 764-1000 to schedule an evaluation.

Share This Post:

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
RehaBlog

More Posts

Top 3 Exercises for Parkinson’s Disease

Have you or a loved one been diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease and are looking to start a new exercise program? Research has indicated that exercise can help reduce the progression of Parkinson’s Disease and can provide relief from motor symptoms, stiffness, or mood changes that can be associated with the diagnosis. It’s recommended to see a physical therapist who is experienced in treating people with Parkinson’s Disease to identify specific areas of improvement and to assist you in establishing a safe, customized exercise program. Learn exercises to address different elements of physical exercise and wellness.

Avocado toast with turkey bacon and tomato

5 No-Egg Healthy Breakfast Ideas​

As many of you may know, there’s been an ongoing egg shortage due to the bird flu, which has significantly impacted egg prices — up by more than 50% from last year. While this may have made your usual breakfast routine a bit more challenging, fear not! There are plenty of other protein-rich options to fuel your day.

Q&A: What to Expect When Facing an Upper or Lower Limb Amputation

In the United States alone, approximately 185,000 amputations occur each year, and 2 million people are living with limb loss. In recognition of Limb Loss Awareness Month, this article addresses common questions surrounding limb loss, from the reasons for amputation to returning to favorite activities following surgery. An amputation is the surgical removal of part of the body, usually an arm or leg. There are three main reasons for amputation.

The Interdisciplinary Approach in Rehabilitation to Multiple Sclerosis Care

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) affects nearly 1 million people in the United States alone. MS is an immune-mediated disease in which the body’s immune system attacks the myelin insulation that surrounds the nerves in the central nervous system. This damage causes widespread symptoms varying in severity, including fatigue, weakness, sensation loss, visual impairments, and walking and balance impairments. These symptoms of MS can impact someone’s mobility, quality of life, ability to work and provide for their family, relationships, and community participation. Because these symptoms can impact so many aspects of a person’s life, a rehabilitative care team should consist of multiple disciplines that work together to provide a collaborative, all-encompassing care plan, called interdisciplinary care.

9 Ways to Improve Sleep After a Concussion

After a concussion, there are a lot of common misconceptions about sleep. Mainly, is it safe to sleep following this mild traumatic brain injury? The answer is yes – it is okay to sleep after a concussion! This misconception stems from an out-of-date recommendation to wake the person up every hour to check on them. However, that is only if there is concern about the risk for a brain hemorrhage or bleed that wasn’t immediately apparent.

Start your Journey

Learn more about Sheltering Arms Institute

Contact a specialist at Sheltering Arms Institute to learn more about how you can gain more freedom in your everyday life.