8. Sensitivity to Light: Nature’s Forced Solitude
Among the myriad of symptoms, one of the more subtle yet distressing is photophobia, or sensitivity to light. Those afflicted often find themselves squinting, even in dimly lit environments, or seeking solace in the dark confines of a room.
This isn’t just a mere inconvenience. For the sufferer, it feels as though the world has suddenly become too bright, too harsh. Everyday light sources, from the mellow rays of a lamp to the soft glow of a screen, can become sources of discomfort. It’s as if the eyes, already battling conjunctivitis, are pleading for a respite from sensory overload.
Delving into patient accounts from past outbreaks provides a vivid portrayal of this symptom. Tales abound of adults draping rooms with thick curtains or donning sunglasses indoors, trying to mitigate the assault of light on their sensitive eyes. It paints a picture of a world suddenly turned hostile, where even light becomes an adversary. (8)
