Sun-glare and sensitive eyes

[garrycrone]

For a number of years (similar to the time elapsed since diagnosis), I have noticed I am becoming more sensitive to sun-glare. Consequently I tend to wear good (dark) sunglasses. I have my regular retinopathy which is all-clear and I have discussed it with my optician who says that it could be related to diabetes but he is not sure. I know that strong sunlight is not that frequent in the UK at the moment but I am finding that even normal light causes me difficulty, especially when driving. I am type 2 with reasonable bsl control. Has anyone come across this or been suffering the same problem and could provide some advice/knowledge? Many thanks.

 

[sugarless sue]

I wear prescription lens so I have reactolyte lens which darken when and if the sun comes out.

 

[Katharine]

Getting glare from lights when you are driving at night can be a sign of cataracts.

 

[janabelle]

Sensitivity to bright light can be associated with Retinitis Pigmentosa. Other symptoms of it can include difficulty seeing in dim light, and visual disturbances similar to the effect you get after you look at a light bulb.
Jus

 

[Amanda Hugankiss]

Oh yes! I have that! I have been sensitive to light for as long as I can remember and not not seeing too well in the dark, I struggle to drive at night because of the glare from the other cars head lights.................I have regular eye checks, I was told to wear my specs at night and not to stop driving at night - the more I do it, the better it will get. :shock:

Linda

 

[janabelle]

Hi Amanda, I had this problem for couple of years before my diagnosis. RP is a rare and usually genetic condition. My older sis had it, that's why I suspected it in me. Unfortunately she's now 41 is almost blind,and lost all her peripheral vision. My mum and aunt, both in ther 60s are not so bad and neither am I. I was diagnosed 9 years ago, and only through persistance. It takes specialist testing(i went to Moorfields) to diagnose RP. There are many forms of RP and it doesn't always lead to blindness. In any case, if you suspect a prob, get a referral. There's no treatment or cure at the moment, but research is moving fast! I was told that wearing dark sunglasses can help RP sufferers retain good vision- and it makes you look like a celebrity in disguise! ItThat's what I do.
I still cycle but do need leading about a bit in dim light,(not on the bike!)
Incidentally my mother and aunt were only checked following my diagnosis. They both, in their 50s only had probs in dim light, I remember my mum had night blindness when I was a child. I only sought a diagnosis as I already had children and wanted another, and wanted to make an informed decision.
Jus