Why does having Bell's palsy make me sensitive to fluorescent lighting?
MAR 10, 2014
Question:
Since being diagnosed with Bell's palsy (3 months ago) my face is sensitive to fluorescent lighting. When I am in a room with this type of lighting the left side of my face feels like it is burning and then my left eye goes twitchy. Why is that?
Answer:
Bell's palsy is a facial nerve weakness that is preventing you from closing your eye completely. As a result your eye may become a bit dry. The fluorescent lights may induce some glare and discomfort. As a result of the dryness your eyes feel like they are burning. You may be trying to compensate for this discomfort by attempting to close your eyes. I would suggest that you avoid bright or fluorescent lights and use artificial tears throughout the day. Additionally, please see your ophthalmologist to check your eye and corneal health while your Bell's palsy recovers.