Baby Sensitive to Light: When to See a Doctor | Parenting Hub
Some squinting in bright light is normal. Marked light sensitivity in a baby needs an eye review to rule out a scratch, infection or rarer causes.
Babies often squint in bright sun. Marked or sudden light sensitivity, especially with tearing or pain, needs same-day review.
What's normal
Babies have sensitive eyes and will turn away or squint in bright sun or sudden indoor light. A wide-brim hat, pram shade and avoiding direct sun usually solve it.
When to seek care
Marked light sensitivity that's new, painful, on one side, or paired with watering, redness or fever needs prompt review — to check for a corneal scratch, infection or, rarely, infantile glaucoma.
When to seek help
- Sudden or one-sided light sensitivity
- Very watery eye, especially with a hazy or large cornea — suspect glaucoma
- Pain, redness or fever
- Won't open the eye
Common questions
Could it be a migraine?
Migraine is rare in babies. Sensitivity at this age usually points to an eye problem and deserves a check.