In a recent episode of Netflix's Fabulous Lives vs Bollywood Wives, art patron and philanthropist Shalini Passi shared a glimpse into a unique struggle that affects her daily life — sunlight sensitivity. Passi revealed to her fellow stars that her eyes begin to water whenever she is exposed to direct sunlight, causing her discomfort and even preventing her from fully enjoying outdoor gatherings. This condition, though not widely discussed, affects many individuals and sheds light on an often overlooked issue in eye health.
A Peek into Shalini Passi's Struggles with Outdoor Gatherings
During a beachside dinner in Mauritius, hosted by Riddhima Kapoor Sahni, Passi’s aversion to outdoor social events became a topic of lighthearted conversation. Riddhima teased her for her reputation of avoiding daytime outings, saying, “You don’t do lunches, so at least you dine.” The comment sparked curiosity among her friends about why Shalini often refrains from joining daytime social gatherings.
In a previous episode, the women of Fabulous Lives vs Bollywood Wives were seen exploring Delhi's scenic Sunder Nursery, where her absence was noticed. Maheep Kapoor, concerned about Shalini’s reduced sun exposure, humorously questioned, “How does she get her Vitamin D? It’s a very serious question.” Passi explained that her “eyes start watering” when exposed to sunlight, and this issue has a significant impact on her ability to participate in daytime activities, limiting her sense of freedom during the day.
View this post on Instagram
Understanding Sunlight Sensitivity and Its Causes
Shalini’s symptoms point to a sensitivity to bright light, commonly known as photophobia. This condition leads to symptoms such as excessive tearing, squinting, and discomfort in response to sunlight. The bright light overstimulates the eye’s nerves, resulting in reflex tearing. Reflex tearing, though helpful as a natural defence, can become a hindrance for those with sunlight sensitivity.
Also Read: Fabulous Lives Vs Bollywood Wives: Exploring Bhavana Pandey’s Bold Take On Perimenopause
One primary cause of excessive tearing in sunlight is epiphora, a medical term for the condition where eyes produce tears in response to irritants, including bright light. Sunlight can overstimulate the nerves within the eye, triggering the lacrimal glands to produce extra tears to protect against UV light exposure. Reflex tearing serves as a barrier, shielding the eye from damage, but the same response can become uncomfortable and limiting.
Other possible causes for tearing in sunlight include dry eye syndrome and allergic reactions. For individuals with dry eyes, sunlight exacerbates the dryness, causing the eyes to overcompensate by producing tears. In cases of allergies, elements like pollen or dust present in the air during sunny days can lead to irritation and tearing.
Could Photophobia Be the Culprit?
In Shalini’s case, her symptoms might be associated with photophobia, a condition where the eyes have an abnormal sensitivity to light. Individuals with photophobia often find even moderate sunlight unbearable, resulting in reflex tearing, squinting, and even headaches. An eye exam can diagnose photophobia by measuring the eyes' response to light exposure and ruling out other potential causes like migraines or corneal issues. Eye specialists might also check for underlying conditions such as dry eye syndrome or keratitis, both of which can intensify sunlight sensitivity.
View this post on Instagram
Environmental Factors That Worsen Sun Sensitivity
Certain environmental and lifestyle factors can make some individuals more prone to watery eyes when exposed to sunlight. High UV exposure, windy weather, and pollution are among the external elements that exacerbate sunlight sensitivity. Additionally, prolonged exposure to screens and dry indoor air conditions can strain the eyes and worsen sensitivity. For someone like Shalini Passi, whose profession often involves extended periods indoors or under artificial lighting, adjusting to bright sunlight can be challenging.
How to Manage Sunlight Sensitivity
Those struggling with sunlight sensitivity can take various steps to minimize discomfort. Using sunglasses that block UV rays can provide substantial relief. UV-blocking lenses help shield the eyes from both brightness and harmful rays, significantly reducing tearing and discomfort. Indoor solutions like using humidifiers can also help maintain eye moisture, especially for those susceptible to dryness.
Regular breaks from screen time, lubricating eye drops, and using hats for additional shade can further support eye health. In cases where the tearing or sensitivity persists, an eye examination with a specialist can offer a comprehensive diagnosis and guidance on managing symptoms effectively.
Bringing Awareness to Sunlight Sensitivity
Shalini Passi’s openness about her sunlight sensitivity highlights a condition that many might overlook or dismiss as a minor inconvenience. However, for those affected, sunlight sensitivity can influence everyday choices, impacting social interactions and the ability to enjoy outdoor settings. By raising awareness, she not only shares her own experiences but also sheds light on the importance of recognizing and managing eye health issues that affect quality of life.