Sometimes people with uveitis also have underlying inflammation elsewhere in the body caused by autoimmune conditions like lupus, Dr. Brissette says. The most common cause of sensitivity to light is dry eye. An aura will often affect your side vision, appearing as flashing lights or patterns. Per the Mayo Clinic, other symptoms of conjunctivitis may include: Discharge in one or both eyes that forms a crust. National Library of Medicines list Why am I very light sensitive in the morning? Eventually, your cornea softens, resulting in irreversible blindness (1, 2). It is fairly common and occurs in all ages, young and old. Subarachnoid hemorrhage: This occurs when you have bleeding between your brain and the surrounding tissue. This condition may occur as a result of an eye condition, such as an eye infection. Vitamin A deficiency is rare in developed countries, but if unaddressed, it can lead to a serious condition called xerophthalmia. We also have to recognize that dry eye symptoms and diagnoses often accompany other conditions (e.g . Light sensitivity, also known as photophobia, is a condition in which your eye gets affected by exposure to bright light. Riboflavin/vitamin B2 deficiency can also affect vision, including blurred vision and itching, watering, sore, or bloodshot eyes, as well eyes becoming light-sensitive and easily fatigued. Treating the underlying cause may help your symptoms. A review of 31 studies suggested that diets high in oily fish such as the traditional Mediterranean diet may protect against diabetic retinopathy. Glasses with the FL-41 tint (which has a pinkish hue) block blue-green wavelengths, which may help with light sensitivity, Dr. Brissette says. The claims on this website have not been clinically proven or evaluated by the FDA. Fix it: Keep in mind that signs of a concussion may not surface until hours or days after an injury. Teas have been used as a natural remedy to soothe stomach upset for thousands of years. See if Ritual products are right, It's no secret that vitamins can improve your health, but not all vitamins and minerals are created equal. Here's why: People with migraines appear to have an overactive occipital lobe, the area of the brain that interprets light and other visual signals, which in turn increases sensitivity to stimulation by light, she says. Other foods with magnesium include oat bran, shredded wheat, peanuts, lima beans and milk. As if scratchy, red, itchy eyes weren't bad enough, light sensitivity can also be a symptom of dreaded dry eye. They may even offer, Calcium disodium EDTA is a common food additive and an ingredient in cosmetic and industrial products. Vitamin A may also help protect against other eye afflictions. Studies have shown that people who are on the computer a lot blink less, which can result in dry eyes. I just found out my eye the black one turn colour to brown . They say it is also important to note that in many cases, a Vitamin B12 deficiency can be prevented. Severe or uncontrollable light sensitivity needs to be treated by your doctor. Beck is currently putting the finishing touches on a novel. If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, please see the Its used in a daily supplement called AREDS as a potential treatment for AMD, and high amounts in your diet may be associated with a reduced risk of cataracts. Night blindness is the difficulty for the eyes to adjust to dim light. Gluten sensitivity and celiac disease are a common cause of vitamin B12 deficiency. 2018 Jan;125(1):139-140. doi:10.1016/j.ophtha.2017.09.031, Sivanesan E, Levitt RC, Sarantopoulos CD, Patin D, Galor A. Noninvasive Electrical Stimulation for the Treatment of Chronic Ocular Pain and Photophobia. Both of these carotenoids can be found in the macula and retina of your eyes, where they help filter potentially harmful blue light, protecting your eyes from damage (32). Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of polyunsaturated fat. Your eyes are complex organs that need many different vitamins and nutrients to function properly. When taken daily, one study suggests that AREDS may reduce the risk of this condition progressing by 25% (10). Does vitamin B12 deficiency causes light sensitivity to one eye, I had Lasik surgery . Recently, studies have suggested that niacin may play a role in the prevention of glaucoma, a condition in which the optic nerve of your eye becomes damaged (27). The eyes might feel gritty, sore or itchy and vision could become blurred. She worked as a certified ophthalmic technician for 10 years before returning to school to earn a Masters of Fine Arts degree in writing. Particular groups may be especially susceptible to riboflavin deficiency, including the elderly, the chronically ill and alcoholics. Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant that helps protect your cells including your eye cells from damage by free radicals, which are harmful, unstable molecules (9). This may be followed with the feeling that your eyes are burning along with eye fatigue. If you have a concussion, it's also important to rest and refrain from exercise that aggravates your symptoms, according to the Mayo Clinic. If you experience a sudden onset of light sensitivity, contact your doctor. All information given here are for educational purposes. Artificial tears can lubricate the surface of your eyes and help keep them more comfortable, Dr. Brissette says. Help prevent encephalitis by washing your hands frequently. If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, have a medical condition, or are under the age of 18, consult your physician before using this product. "Similar to corneal abrasions and uveitis, infections cause inflammation, which leads to light sensitivity," Dr. Brissette says. Soon there will be sensitivity to light and then changes in the cornea and eventually cataracts. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Some eye conditions cannot be cured, but these natural options can protect your eyes from further damage. Food sources of thiamine include whole grains, meat, and fish. Light sensitivity, or photophobia, is a condition in which bright lights hurt your eyes. For example, one observational study showed a 75% reduced risk of developing cataracts when the daily vitamin C intake was above 490 mg, compared to 125 mg or less (17). The level of discomfort will depend on the severity of your photophobia. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. As little as 6 mg of lutein and zeaxanthin may yield benefits, and a diet rich in fruits and vegetables naturally provides this amount. Board-certified doctors, who spend time working in the field and shaping the future of medicine. According to Harvard Health, a serious Vitamin B12 deficiency can be corrected with weekly shots of Vitamin B12 or a high-dose B12 pill taken daily. . A virus, bacteria, or allergies causes the thin layer of tissue covering the eye to become inflamed. Eat more dark green vegetables such as spinach and collards, which are high in lutein and zeaxanthin. Some examples include oats, milk, yogurt, beef, and fortified cereals (23). Coupon not available on case orders. Some conditions that cause sensitivity to light are considered medical emergencies. It can be caused by an aneurysm or head injury and can be fatal. Visit us online to learn more about lutein and eye vitamins and browse our entire supplement . Light Sensitivity may be associated with: Adie's Pupil. Thyroid condition Diabetes Dry eye syndrome makes the cornea more sensitive to light and in severe cases can damage the cornea. Vitamins Deficiency - Sensitivity to light is a common symptom of vitamins A and B-complex deficiency. If the rash is eczematous, it is a photodermatitis. For example, conjunctivitis otherwise known as pink eye is a common eye infection that inflames the conjunctiva (the transparent membrane that lines your eyelid and the white part of your eyeball), according to the Mayo Clinic. Detecting eye problems that appear as symptoms is the best and the most commonly-preferred way to diagnose Vitamin A deficiency. People with red hair can churn out more vitamin D in low-light conditions than others. Nonetheless, a diet that includes adequate vitamin E is recommended to maintain proper eye health. As it is a potent brain compound, its deficiency would naturally affect the healthy functioning of our central nervous system. Others are more serious health conditions that require immediate medical attention. Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and may help prevent diabetic retinopathy when included in your diet. Vitamin C can regenerate Vitamin E at the cell membrane. As an antioxidant, riboflavin has the potential to reduce oxidative stress in your body, including your eyes (22). 5. "Over 80 percent of people who have migraines have photophobia," Dr. Brissette says. The combination of vitamins B6, B9, and B12 may help reduce your risk of developing AMD by lowering your homocysteine levels. Save an ADDITIONAL 10% on your first order when you sign up for Subscribe & Save! Light sensitivity, or photophobia, is a condition in which bright lights hurt your eyes. Cooked spinach, kale, and collard greens are particularly high in these carotenoids (36). As a result, the risk of eye disease is reduced, and light sensitivity can be treated. These fats may also aid those with dry eye disease. Copyright 2023 Leaf Group Ltd., all rights reserved. Its mostly caused by viruses, but it can also be caused by bacteria and allergies. Levels less than 10 micrograms per deciliter indicate severe vitamin A deficiency. Your doctor will perform a physical examination as well as an eye exam. QUESTION 48. Researchers have also studied several B vitamins . Our team periodically reviews articles in order to ensure content quality. These reviews should not be taken as recommendations but rather customer opinions of the products that they have used. Some of the common symptoms of a corneal ulcer include persisting pain, sensitivity to light, blurry vision, a sensation of something getting stuck in the eyes. But in severe cases any light can irritate the eyes. In addition, some studies suggest that diets high in vitamin E may help prevent age-related cataracts. It can be a classical symptom of specific eye diseases, and the discomfort in the eyes can vary according to the cause, which in severe cases can become painful (even in dim or normal light). A mild B12 deficiency can typically be fixed with a standard multivitamin. Corneal abrasion: Your cornea is the outermost layer of the eye. Try to avoid the triggers that cause you to have migraine attacks. Whats more, thiamine has been proposed as a potential treatment for the early stages of diabetic retinopathy. They will perform an eye exam as well as a physical exam to identify the cause. Light Sensitivity may be associated with: The symptoms and possible related eye conditions/diseases in this section are for general reference only, and do not contain all visual symptoms or all possible related conditions or diseases. The bacterial form can lead to serious complications such as brain damage, hearing loss, seizures, and even death. Please check with the appropriate physician regarding health questions and concerns. Here are the 15 best vitamin brands to help. Dry eye occurs when your tear glands cant make enough tears or make poor-quality tears. Deficiency of beta carotene and lutein. Learn what causes it and how to get rid of. Deficiencies can occur in diseases that inhibit small intestine absorption. Vitamin subscription services not only deliver vitamins to your door but also help you keep track of what to take when. You might also experience eye fatigue and light sensitivity. Scleritis: Scleritis is a disease that causes the whites of the eyes to become inflamed. Light sensitive eyes can be caused for a variety of reasons. Supplements may be beneficial if you suspect youre missing any of these vitamins in your diet. Take an important step in achieving your health goals by signing up for 1MD Nutrition's Subscription Box today and receive your favorite products, while minimizing time and maximizing savings. Meningitis is a bacterial infection that causes inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Limit blue light exposure before bed, as too much of it can get in the way of quality sleep, which can in turn trigger a migraine, according to the Sleep Foundation. Many drugs alter our nervous system which causes the pupil to become larger and allows additional light into the eye. May Feel Pain Differently People with red hair appear to have altered pain perceptions and sensitivity to . Is this an emergency? Severe cases of it can be life-threatening. When this happens, the brain swells, and pressure increases within the head. Light sensitivity is commonly associated with a few serious conditions that affect the brain. Mult Scler Relat Disord. A deficiency in B-2 might also result in eye problems such as redness and irritation. Some people are more sensitive when it comes to illness or having vitamin deficiency as compared to others. Also known as pink eye, conjunctivitis occurs when the layer of tissue that covers the white part of your eye becomes infected or inflamed. As a result, you may experience light sensitivity, blurred or double vision, tracers or shadows, which all result from damage to the optic nerve. Chalazion. Feb. 03, 2021. Headaches, neck stiffness, and light sensitivity are common symptoms. While the reasons for this aren't fully known, "many causes of light sensitivity may in fact be mediated by the brain rather than the eyes," Dr. Brissette says. Mental illness: Some mental health diseases can also cause light sensitivity. Given the large number of nerves in the eye, it makes sense that B vitamins can contribute to optimal eye health. For example, blepharospasm, progressive supranuclear palsy, fibromyalgia and strokes can make someone more sensitive to light, per the RNIB. For a dozen years after my initial retinopathy diagnosis, my condition was considered very mild and didnt require any attention beyond the best-possible blood sugar management. In addition to the above treatment options, you can boost eye health naturally. They also occur more often in women than in men. Conditions like albinism are commonly linked to light sensitivity. Dim or turn off indoor lights; close curtains in windows if too much light enters. By supporting eye health you can reduce eye strain, strengthen the eye structures, and have a fighting chance against photophobia symptoms. Similarly, use lightbulbs that emit green light, which may not aggravate migraine symptoms. Is it safe to use a mini-trampoline after glaucoma implant surgery? Light sensitivity may be caused by a condition out of your control, but there are certain behaviors you can do to reduce the severity. For general eye health, vitamin-A-rich foods are recommended over supplements. Prevent conjunctivitis by practicing good hygiene, not touching your eyes, and not sharing eye makeup. Your doctor can perform blood tests to determine how much magnesium you have in your blood, and this will allow her to diagnose your condition. Anxiety disorders are most commonly associated with vision issues. Light sensitivity can range from severe to mild cases, making many light sources uncomfortable. Dizziness . We highlight sunglasses for cycling, safety, sitting by the pool, and more. Here are eight to consider and what to know for healthy eyes and less eye strain. Fix it: Speak with your doctor, who can perform an evaluation and help you get to the root of the problem. Light sensitivity, also known as photophobia, is a condition in which your eye gets affected by exposure to bright light. Bacterial meningitis is more dangerous and can be fatal if not treated with antibiotics. Prolonged Vitamin A deficiency can cause permanent corneal damage called xeropthalmia. // Leaf Group Lifestyle. They are classified according to the part of the eye that is affected. *One time use per customer. QUESTION 47. // Leaf Group Lifestyle. Problems seeing in the dark. True. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. This guide can help you recognize when its time to see a doctor. Fix it: Protect your eyes. However, maintaining an adequate level of B-2 could help reduce your need for this procedure. Although we strive to deliver accurate and up-to-date information, no guarantee to that effect is made. Haemorrhage: In this condition, bleeding occurs inside the brain due to any head injury, trauma, or accident. **These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. In more severe cases, your doctor may recommend prescription eye drops or tear duct plugs (special plugs placed into your tear ducts that help keep your tears in your eyes), according to the National Eye Institute (NEI). There are several conditions that can cause or worsen light sensitivity. These include: A corneal abrasion is an injury to the cornea, the outermost layer of the eye. Four signs that can indicate a vitamin D deficiency are in the eyes. It can be fatal or lead to brain damage or a stroke. Eye twitching can be caused by a vitamin deficiency (Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, Magnesium, calcium, electrolytes), abnormal brain function, stress or anxiety, caffeine or other . If left untreated and the cornea becomes infected, a corneal tumor can develop, which is a more serious threat to vision. Oregon State University: Linus Pauling Institute: Magnesium, All About Vision: Photophobia (Light Sensitivity), University of Maryland Medical Center: Migraine Headache, Clark J, Hasselfeld K, Bigsby K, Divine J. Diets high in thiamine have been associated with a reduced risk of developing cataracts. 112 Views v. Answers (1) If you've recently hit your head and are experiencing some of these symptoms, seek medical care immediately. Interestingly, many individuals with cataracts also are deficient in this antioxidant (23, 24). Colored Glasses to Mitigate Photophobia Symptoms Posttraumatic Brain Injury. Observational studies suggest that this vitamin may protect against cataracts and help prevent the progression of AMD. So when light enters your eyes, it disperses, leading to light sensitivity or blurry vision, she explains. Cataracts: It can affect the vision of the eyes by causing a cloudy appearance. Use code: SUBSCRIBE10, ViteyesFebruary 5, 2018Eye Health, Nutrition. Vitamins Deficiency - Sensitivity to light is a common symptom of vitamins A and B-complex deficiency. This article reviews the benefits, safety, and side. Like vitamin E, vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that may protect your eyes against damaging free radicals (14). Fix it: If you have a foreign object in your eye, take these steps to wash it out safely, per the Mayo Clinic: While most corneal abrasions heal in a day or so, it's still safest to see your eye doctor to make sure it doesn't become infected and turn into something more serious like a corneal ulcer, according to the Mayo Clinic. The antioxidant protection of this ingredient also reduces the risk of macular degeneration or can slow its progression. A number of vitamins make up the vitamin B complex of nutrients, and these vitamins play a crucial role in how your body develops and functions. Photophobia is often a symptom of some other health issue. A deficiency in vitamin B-1, also known as thiamine, might cause eye muscle weakness and trembling called a nystagmus. Several observational studies suggest that vitamin C may help lower your risk of developing cataracts, a condition that causes your eye to become cloudy and impairs vision (16). Sweet potatoes are an excellent source, as are leafy green vegetables, pumpkins, and bell peppers (1). Triggers of dry eyes include getting older and changes in hormone levels. Some food sources include beef, poultry, fish, mushrooms, peanuts, and legumes. Here are 5 potential benefits of 5-HTP, Ritual is a subscription-based vitamin company that offers protein powders and multivitamins for people of all ages. Zeaxanthinworks together with lutein. Night blindness is generally a symptom of an underlying ocular condition that involves the health of the retina, though it can also result from severe or worsening myopia, or a vitamin A deficiency.. Vitamin A deficiency is one of the most common causes of night blindness. The type of treatment you need will depend on the underlying cause. Uveitis refers to a group of inflammatory diseases that generates swelling and damages eye tissues, according to the NEI. False. In particular, scientists are studying riboflavins potential to prevent cataracts, as prolonged riboflavin deficiency may lead to this condition. Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis is very contagious, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Most are mild and can be successfully treated. To increase omega-3 fatty acids in your diet, include rich sources such as fish, flaxseed, chia seeds, soy, and nuts. GoodRx. Is Calcium Disodium EDTA a Safe Additive. The sources cited below consist of evidence from peer-reviewed journals, prominent medical organizations, academic associations, and government data. Available from. Magnesium-rich foods include brown rice with 60 mg per serving and almonds, providing 78 mg in approximately 23 almonds. The symptoms of light sensitivity can be treated with vitamin supplements including vitamins A, C, E, and Zinc. Along with light sensitivity, people with concussions also commonly complain of headaches, Dr. Brissette says. Supplements should be used with caution. Contribute to chinapedia/wikipedia.en development by creating an account on GitHub. Per the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, common medications with this effect include: Fix it: Speak to your doctor, who may be able to adjust your medication dosage or prescribe another drug that doesn't produce photophobia. Eyes may be sensitive to bright light, and they . Omega 3 fatty acid: It provides protection against any oxidative responses and inflammation. Give your house a good . Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. Common medications known to cause photophobia include antibiotics such as tetracycline and doxycycline, antiviral drugs such as iodxuridine and trifluridine, motion sickness drugs such as scopolamine, diabetic drugs such as chlorpropamide and glyburide, and any medications that dilute the pupil. It can become scratched by particles getting into the eye. Nonetheless, supplements may not be necessary. Consider getting a humidifier to keep the air around you moist. Mild cases make you squint in a brightly lit room or while outside. Eye drops and over-the-counter artificial tears can keep them lubricated and tone down the pain of light. As always, make sure to visit your doctor to ensure the light sensitivity is not anything more serious. Below are some of the best foods for light sensitive eyes: You can also consider adding a lutein-based supplement to your daily diet. This will help your doctor determine the cause of your photophobia 1. Darker pigments protect against harsh lighting. According to Medline Plus from the National Library of Medicine, some causes of sensitivity to light include: Eye inflammation Corneal abrasion or ulcer Wearing contact lenses too long or lenses that fit poorly Eye infection, diseases, injury or recovering from eye surgery Meningitis Migraine headaches Medications Eat more cheese and almonds as they contain riboflavin which has been found to be helpful in migraines, where photophobia is often a symptom. LIVESTRONG.com may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. However, there is no evidence that consuming foods naturally high in niacin has any adverse effects. Im talking oatmeal baths for chicken pox and yes a little bit of your urine in your infected eye. This will help prevent migraines and other side effects of a low magnesium level or a deficiency. People who have conditions such as Sjogren's syndrome and Parkinson's disease may have increased risk of dry eye disease. Contact your doctor right away if you notice light sensitivity. A clinical study in women demonstrated a 34% reduced risk of developing AMD while taking 1,000 mcg of vitamin B12 along with vitamins B6 and B9 (21). Vitamin C and several other nutrients are used in the supplement AREDS, which may benefit those with AMD. Here are the 11 best turmeric supplements. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Light sensitivity is caused by a number of conditions that affect the eye (such as iritis, uveitis, and keratitis ), as well as conditions that affect the entire body. According to lecture, which of the following has the most potential for toxicity? Another B vitamin studied in relation to eye health is riboflavin (vitamin B2). Improve Eyesight HQ is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to ImproveEyesightHQ.com. Light sensitivity can occur as a result of any number of ailments, but the most common cause is age-related macular degeneration, which causes loss of vision in the center and sides of the visual field. Some causes include large pupils, light eye color, cataracts, dry eyes, computer vision syndrome, glaucoma, eyestrain and other conditions. Many migraine sufferers find that they need to recover in a dark room during an attack because of their photophobia, or that bright lights can trigger an attack. To find out how to treat the other causes of photophobia such as retinal detachment and cataracts, click on the appropriate links under the External Causes section for specific treatments. 3. 1 When the eyes become dry as a result of low vitamin D levels, it may also become more difficult to produce tears. 4. The information contained on this site is for informational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for the advice of a professional health care provider. Magnesium deficiency is not known to cause light sensitivity, but if you have photophobia, talk with your doctor about a possible connection to migraines 12. . Migraines are most commonly associated with light sensitivity. Your doctor will prescribe vitamin A supplements if you have a deficiency. Photophobia is also common in several conditions that affect the eyes. Drugs- Check with your doctor whether it is possible to discontinue or switch to a drug that doesnt increase sensitivity to light. Nutritional deficiencies, especially in lutein, zeaxanthin and vitamin A may also cause light sensitivity. Required fields are marked *. A clinical study found that 100 mg of thiamine taken three times daily reduced the amount of albumin in urine an indication of diabetic retinopathy in type 2 diabetes (45). Just don't wear them inside. Severe cases can cause seizures and can be life-threatening. Again, the eyes contain many nerve fibers, which, when inflamed, can cause light sensitivity. The first sign is night blindness, or the inability to see in low light or darkness as a result of low rhodopsin levels in the retina [ 1, 23, 24 ]. A migraine is an intense headache that can also cause nausea and light sensitivity. All doctors mentioned and/or featured on this site are paid partners of 1MD Nutrition. The Lancet, 387(10013), 93-94. This could indicate an underlying condition such as intraocular inflammation. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Mayo Clinic: Corneal abrasion (scratch): First aid, Mayo Clinic: Pink eye (conjunctivitis), Royal National Institute of Blind People: Other causes of light sensitivity, National Institutes of Health: Albinism, American Migraine Foundation: Photophobia (Light Sensitivity) and Migraine, Sleep Foundation: "Sleep Deprivation and Migraines", American Academy of Ophthalmology: "Computers, Digital Devices and Eye Strain", Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: "Prevention", Wisconsin Department of Health Services: "Medications and other Agents that Increase Sensitivity to Light", Duke Health: "Myth or Fact: Blue Eyes Are More Sensitive to Light", Rinse your eye with clean water or a saline The main function of niacin (vitamin B3) in your body is to help convert food into energy. Get ophthalmologist-reviewed tips and information about eye health and preserving your vision. 20022022 viteyes.com. The views/opinions expressed by contributors and/or product reviews are their own and not necessarily those of 1MD.org. Supplementing with good quality eye vitamins has been found useful in reducing photophobia. In addition, vitamin C is required to make collagen, a protein that provides structure to your eye, particularly in the cornea and sclera (15). Try the TheraSpecs Audrey glasses (Amazon.com, $119) to give your eyes a break from blue light. For example, an observational study on the nutrient consumption of Korean adults and their risk for glaucoma found an association between low dietary intake of niacin and this condition (28). 2017 Aug;52(8):725-729. doi:10.4085/1062-6050-52.4.04, Cortese A, Conte A, Ferrazzano G, Sgarlata E, Millefiorini E, Frontoni M, Berardelli A. Photophobia in multiple sclerosis. Light touchy eyes might be caused for a number reasons. All rights reserved. This reduces swelling and pain, which can trigger light sensitivity. The most common clinical sign of vitamin A deficiency is xerophthalmia, which develops after plasma retinol has been low and the eye's vitamin A reserves have become depleted. Sensitivity to light and trouble seeing in dim light are two early warning signs of glaucoma, along with pain in the eyes from eye strain, headaches, increasingly . Light sensitivity is a common symptom of several eye conditions. Dr. Brissette puts it this way: The pigments in the eye help absorb wavelengths of light, so people with reduced pigmentation will experience issues with light absorption and thus have increased sensitivity to bright light. Red raspberry leaves have been used during pregnancy and to treat various ailments for centuries.