Everything you should know about Photophobia: a disease suffered by Pedro Almodóvar.

The list of celebrities who suffer from visual problems is long. In this article we tell you all about photophobia, the annoying visual condition suffered by acclaimed film director Pedro Almodóvar.

What is photophobia?

Photophobia is a visual condition that affects a considerable number of people worldwide. This condition involves an abnormal sensitivity to light (either natural or artificial), which can cause eye discomfort, headaches, dizziness and other symptoms in those who suffer from it. It can affect anyone regardless of age.

People with albinism have a greater predisposition to present this disorder because their eyes have less pigmentation, so they are more sensitive to light.

Causes of photophobia

Photophobia is usually associated with ocular and neurological pathologies. However, there are cases in which it is not a sign of an underlying disease. Here are some of the most common causes of photophobia:

• Dry eye: dry eye is a disease of the ocular surface characterized by a shortage of tear production. This condition causes alterations in the tear film, which can make the eyes more sensitive to light.
• Cataracts: This condition causes the crystalline lens, which acts as the eye's natural lens, to become opaque over the years. Loss of vision and photophobia are two of the most common symptoms.
• Uveitis: Uveitis can also cause photophobia. This condition involves inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye. Some of its symptoms are: pain, redness, and photophobia.
• Conjunctivitis: Conjunctivitis is one of the most common ocular pathologies. It consists of inflammation of the conjunctiva, a transparent membrane that covers the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. Photophobia is a common symptom in many cases of conjunctivitis.
• Optic neuritis: the optic nerve is responsible for sending visual information from the eye to the brain. When it becomes inflamed, it is called optic neuritis. This condition is not only accompanied by photophobia, but also by eye pain and vision loss.
• Refractive surgery: Refractive surgery is a surgical procedure performed to correct visual conditions such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism and presbyopia. After the operation some patients experience photophobia, however, it usually disappears gradually.
• Contact lenses: Poorly fitted or contaminated contact lenses irritate the eyes, which can cause photophobia. The same can occur when they are not replaced within the period indicated by the doctor.
• Retinitis pigmentosa: Retinitis pigmentosa is a rare hereditary eye disease. This pathology causes deterioration of the retina, the light-sensitive layer that covers the back of the eye. Symptoms experienced by sufferers include progressive loss of vision and photophobia.
• Migraine headaches: Migraine is also among the causes. Together with sonophobia, photophobia is one of its most common symptoms. It is estimated that about 80% of migraine sufferers experience it.
• Medications and drugs: high sensitivity to light can be one of the side effects of taking certain drugs and medicines.
• Anxiety: sometimes photophobia also appears as a symptom of mental illnesses such as anxiety. This type of photophobia is usually mild and disappears when anxiety and stress levels decrease.

Symptoms of photophobia

Most people who suffer from photophobia tend to have the following symptoms:

Eye pain

This is one of the most common photophobia symptoms. It is a feeling of discomfort and discomfort in both eyes. It is usually described as sharp or stabbing.

Tearing

People with photophobia often have watery eyes. This symptom consists of excessive tear production and appears upon exposure to light.

Eye redness

This symptom is caused by dilation of the blood vessels in the eyes. This may cause the eyes to appear red, bloodshot or pink.

Burning sensation in the eyes

Burning or stinging of the eyes is another symptom of photophobia. This sensation is caused by irritation of the nerve endings in the eyes from hypersensitivity to light.

Headache

Everyone has experienced headaches at least once in their lives. This symptom manifests itself as an unpleasant sensation in the head or neck. In the case of photophobia this pain is usually described as throbbing and is accompanied by other symptoms.

Nausea and dizziness

Nausea, on the one hand, is a feeling of discomfort or uneasiness in the stomach that may make you want to vomit. On the other hand, dizziness is a feeling of disorientation or imbalance. Many people who suffer from photophobia tend to experience nausea and dizziness when exposed to light.

Blurred vision

Blurred vision is defined as the loss of the ability to see clearly. In those who suffer from photophobia this symptom tends to occur along with those mentioned above.

Difficulty concentrating

The feelings of discomfort and eye discomfort caused by photophobia make it difficult to concentrate on activities such as following a conversation, reading or studying.

When should you see a doctor?

You should see a doctor immediately if:

• the eye pain is severe;
• the photophobia is accompanied by other symptoms such as headache, redness of the eyes, dizziness and even vomiting;
• the symptoms persist after one or two days.

In this way you will get a proper diagnosis and treatment. The doctor will ask you how long you have had the symptoms, if you wear contact lenses, if you take any medication, how severe the symptoms are, etc. A diagnosis will be made based on the patient's symptoms. These are some of the tests that may be performed:

• Fundoscopy: this test examines the optic nerve and the retina, which is the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. It is also known as ophthalmoscopy or fundus examination.
• Visual acuity test: This test measures the sharpness of your vision. The most common is called the Snellen test. In this test, the patient sits within 20 feet of a Snellen chart. This chart contains a set of letters that the patient must read aloud.
• Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): This is a painless, non-invasive test that creates detailed images of the retina. During this test the patient sits in front of a device and drops are placed in the eyes to dilate the pupils. The test usually takes a few minutes.

Consequences of photophobia

The limitations that a person with photophobia may experience in daily life depend on the severity of the symptoms. In cases of acute photophobia, the eye discomfort may be such that sufferers are forced to keep their eyes closed when exposed to light. Consequently, the person's quality of life is affected, presenting:

1. Difficulties in driving: sunlight can cause intense visual pain in people with photophobia, making driving during the day uncomfortable and even dangerous.
2. Limitation of outdoor activities: due to the aforementioned discomfort, people with photophobia may avoid places such as beaches, parks or sporting events.
3. Limitations in the use of electronic devices: the light emitted by computer screens, cell phones and other electronic devices also causes eye discomfort for those with photophobia. As a result, concentrating and completing tasks requiring these tools can be difficult.
4. Emotional and social impact: the aforementioned limitations and the constant discomfort caused by photophobia can lead to frustration, anxiety or social isolation in sufferers.

Treatments for photophobia

As we have already seen, photophobia occurs due to different causes. Therefore, treatments for this condition vary according to the underlying pathology. If the photophobia is caused by an eye disease, the treatment will focus on treating it, which will improve and its symptoms will disappear.

For example, if it is caused by dry eye, your eye doctor will prescribe drops that stimulate tear production. In the case of cataracts, the treatment may be surgery.

If the cause is uveitis, the doctor will tell you what medications or antibiotics to take to treat this condition or, if necessary, will perform surgery. On the other hand, if it is a migraine, you should take medications that reduce its symptoms.

If the photophobia is not caused by an underlying disease, there are a number of treatments that can help alleviate the symptoms. These include:

• Using eye drops: some eye drops help reduce the symptoms caused by high sensitivity to light.
• Wearing sunglasses: sunglasses with dark, polarized lenses or special filters can help block light and reduce the discomfort associated with photophobia.

What are special filters for photophobia?

Special or therapeutic filters are lenses that are designed to block different types of light. They are used to treat or reduce symptoms caused by certain visual conditions. They help reduce eye sensitivity, glare, eye pain, etc., and protect your eyes from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Some filters suitable for treating photophobia are:

• Yellow filters are ideal for blocking blue light. This type of light reaches deeper into the eye and can cause permanent damage to the retina.
  In cases of moderate photophobia , the 450 filter is usually recommended, which improves contrasts and reduces glare, thus mitigating eye discomfort. It is also indicated for patients with glaucoma, cataracts and optic nerve atrophy.
• Another filter used for photophobia is the Fl-41, also known as fluorescent filter 41. This type of lens was created in the 80's by Dr. Arnold Wilkins, and the Fl-41 serves to alleviate the symptoms caused by migraine and high sensitivity to light. And the best part is that you can use them both indoors and outdoors.
• Although not specifically designed for photophobia patients, polarized and photochromic filters also help reduce their symptoms.Polarized filters serve the function of reducing glare, which helps reduce eye fatigue and discomfort caused by intense light. All this makes this type of eyewear an excellent choice for people with light sensitivity.
• Sunglasses with photochromic filters can also be useful for people with high light sensitivity. This type of lens changes color in response to ultraviolet (UV) light exposure.

Before purchasing a pair of glasses with photophobia filters, it is advisable to consult an eye care professional. This will give you specific recommendations on the type of filter that is right for you.

Pedro Almodóvar: a photography and directing genius who suffers from photophobia

Pedro Almodóvar has been recognized as a genius cinematographer and director both in Spain and around the world. His ability to create films of undeniable visual richness has made him one of the most influential directors in the contemporary film industry. This has earned him numerous awards and recognitions throughout his career.

Among his most recognized works are Talk to Her ( 2002), Pain and Glory (2019) and All About My Mother (1999), a film for which he won his first Oscar.

Sunglasses are a characteristic accessory of Pedro Almodóvar's outfits. He always wears a pair to the ceremonies and events he attends. The reason? The acclaimed film director suffers from photophobia. As with anyone who suffers from this condition, glasses allow him to protect his eyes from intense light and carry out his daily activities comfortably and safely.

Despite this difficulty, the director has managed to overcome this obstacle and create visual masterpieces that have left an indelible mark on the world of cinema.

Sunglasses models to counteract photophobia: what glasses does Almodóvar wear?

When it comes to combating the annoying symptoms caused by photophobia, the right sunglasses can make all the difference. In this context, choosing a pair of glasses is not only about style, but also about functionality and protection.

As we have already seen, these types of glasses often have special features, such as therapeutic or polarized filters. They need to block bright light, reduce glare and protect the eyes from harmful UV rays. All of this helps alleviate the discomfort and eye irritation experienced by people with high light sensitivity.

Over the years the famous film director Pedro Almodovar has been photographed wearing a variety of sunglasses styles. These range from classic designs to more avant-garde and eye-catching designs.

Taking inspiration from the likes of Pedro Almodovar can offer ideas on how to combine style and function when choosing the perfect pair of glasses. Here are some of his most iconic looks and eyewear styles:

David Beckham DB 1113/S 08A-M9.

The film director wore a stylish outfit during the 2020 Oscar Awards ceremony. Dark glasses - one of his favorite accessories - complemented his look perfectly.

The David Beckham DB 1113/S 08A-M9 available at Óptica Bassol have a very similar design to the ones worn by Almodóvar. This is a pair of men's sunglasses designed by the David Beckham brand. Featuring a classic black wayfarer style frame and gray lenses, these sunglasses are the finishing touch your outfit needs!

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Matsuda M1020 SG.BRB 50

On another occasion, while walking along La Croisette towards the Cannes Festival Palace, Almodóvar wore spectacular brown sunglasses.

At Optica Bassol we have a very similar model! This is the Matsuda M1020 SG.BRB 50. This design has a wayfarer style frame with gradient lenses. This pair of glasses designed by Matsuda is available for both men and women. Made from premium acetate,this pair of glasses will make your look more fashionable . look will be unparalleled!

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Bottega Veneta BV1213S 004 55

He has also been photographed wearing a look composed of printed garments and attractive white sunglasses. The Bottega Veneta BV1213S 004 55 have a very similar design to those worn by the Talk To Her creator.

They have a square-shaped frame in white and gray lenses. This Bottega Veneta model was made of top quality acetate by expert craftsmen. At Optica Bassol you can also find it available in colors such as black, green and havana. It is the ideal accessory to give your outfit a modern and cool touch!

Check them out and know their specifications and measurements!

Tips for everyday use if you suffer from photophobia

If you suffer from photophobia, it is important to take measures to protect your eyes and reduce the pain and discomfort caused by high sensitivity to light. At Optica Bassol we share with you some tips for everyday life:

1. Wear quality sunglasses with special or polarized lenses to reduce the amount of light reaching your eyes. You can take a look at the sunglasses models of the best brands available at Bassol Optics.
2. Avoid direct exposure to intense sunlight, especially during the midday hours when the light is strongest.
3. Use wide-brimmed hats or caps with visors to provide additional shade to your eyes.
4. Adjust brightness and contrast settings on your electronic devices, such as smartphones and computers, to reduce the impact of bright light.
5. Keep curtains or blinds closed in your home or office to reduce the amount of light that enters.
6. If you must go out on sunny days, consider bringing an umbrella or seeking shaded areas to protect yourself from direct light.

Remember that it is important to consult an ophthalmologist if you experience symptoms of photophobia on a regular basis, as it can sometimes be a symptom of an underlying problem that requires medical attention.

Get the best options in prescription glasses and sunglasses at Optica Bassol!

In our optical shop we have a wide catalog of prescription glasses and sunglasses. We are official distributors in Spain of the best brands: Gucci, Saint Laurent, Balenciaga, Etnia Barcelona, Prada, Ray-Ban and many more!

Take care of your visual health and stay fashionable with glasses of different styles, shapes and colors that we have for you. You will find designs for both men and women. Whether you prefer a classic or contemporary look, choose the model that suits you and your face shape!

We invite you to make an appointment and visit us at our branches in Barcelona, where our team of optometry experts will be happy to assist you.

In our optical shop we offer shipping to all countries, so you can enjoy our products wherever you are. In addition, all deliveries within the Spanish peninsula are completely free of charge.

In case you are not satisfied with your purchase, you have a period of 14 days to make changes or returns. In Optica Bassol the comfort and satisfaction of our customers is our priority! If you suffer from photophobia, now you know you can count on us.