What does the term "photophobia" refer to?

Photophobia refers to increased sensitivity to light. Individuals with photophobia may find bright lights uncomfortable or painful and often prefer dim lighting or wear sunglasses even indoors. This condition can be associated with various eye conditions, migraines, or neurological disorders, making it a significant symptom to recognize in patients. Understanding photophobia is essential for optometrists as it can impact a patient's quality of life and inform treatment options to help manage their sensitivity to light effectively.

In contrast, options related to decreased sensitivity to light or inability to see in the dark describe different visual impairments. Color blindness refers specifically to the inability to perceive certain colors, which is unrelated to the sensitivity to light.