Light Sensitivity

SportsSafe

Pediatric Concussion Clinics located in Austin, TX

Light sensitivity is an unusual symptom among children and should always be investigated. When light sensitivity occurs after a blow to the head, your child should be evaluated for a concussion. Parents of children suffering from light sensitivity after injury can make an appointment by contacting the team at SportsSafe in Austin, Texas, today.

512-814-1616

Light Sensitivity

What is light sensitivity?

Light sensitivity occurs when a child’s eyes hurt in response to light levels that wouldn’t normally cause any problems. Light sensitivity may occur on its own, or it may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as nausea or headache.

Older children with light sensitivity can describe the symptom to parents clearly; however, younger children may not be as expressive. Children who begin covering their eyes or shying away from normal light levels should be evaluated.

What causes light sensitivity?

Light sensitivity can have many different causes. In some cases, light sensitivity accompanies a migraine. It may also occur because of an injury to the eye. If light sensitivity develops after a child has experienced a head injury, it may be a sign of a concussion.

How does SportsSafe diagnose the cause of light sensitivity after a head injury?

When a patient comes in with light sensitivity after a head injury, SportsSafe will take steps to determine if the symptom is related to a concussion. For most patients, this will involve a neurologic exam and an analysis of the patient’s medical history. SportsSafe providers may also order additional assessments to rule out or confirm the presence of a concussion.

How is light sensitivity after head injury treated?

Light sensitivity related to a concussion will usually resolve as the child heals from his/her concussion. In most cases, patients with a concussion simply need to rest and protect their brain from further injury. While the brain heals, patients won’t be able to participate in any activity that puts them at risk of a second brain injury, such as gym class, sports, or recess. They may also need to avoid strenuous cognitive activity temporarily.

How long does it take for a concussion to heal?

Most patients with light sensitivity because of a concussion will notice a gradual improvement in their symptoms over time. The majority of patients with this condition will heal completely in 2-4 weeks.. However, some patients may need more or less time to recover. During recovery, patients should attend all follow-up appointments to ensure that the injury is healing appropriately.

Testimonials

Words from our patients

"Emily and her staff were top notch, professional and thorough... This is a place you can trust your children are receiving the best care possible for healing"

Heidi H.
"We are thankful for Sports Safe's expertise and caring attitude"

Lynore S.
"Professional, patient, kind, thorough. Highly recommend them to anyone who finds themselves in the unfortunate situation of concussion"

Anne W.
"The staff is incredible and very well-received by all the kids I saw there... I've been recommending them to everyone in the football team. Keep the fantastic work!"

Rocky B.
"The physical was relaxed & efficient, yet thorough. We left the appointment feeling more knowledgeable about concussions and what to look out for. Definitely recommend!"

Erin G.
"Wow, the nurse practitioner was fantastic. Expert, kind care by someone who has been an athlete in the same sport made us feel totally understood and care for"

Jessica T.
"SportsSafe is amazing... Thank you to everyone at SportsSafe! I'll make sure we let Coach H. know that all his athletes with concussions should go to SportsSafe!"

Lindsay L.
" Thorough exam. Great customer service. Peace of mind obtained through the sway and computerized test. "

Karla G.
"My son and I left our visit feeling like we knew so much more about his concussion, what it meant, and what was necessary to help the healing process."

Trinda F.
"The staff is optimistic and supportive to the whole person. Giving positive feedback about how to handle their injury and what the future has in store."

Taryn M.
"I cannot imagine dealing with the healing process along with all the missed school each time without these wonderful ladies. They have truly been a blessing!"

Shannon S.
"Thank goodness for SportsSafe. Able to get an appt within a day, seen on time, very thorough exam and testing."

Karla G.
"I highly recommend Meredith and the clinic to anyone facing the challenges of recovering from a concussion. Professional, prompt, personable, and impressive."

Dani G.