Light sensitivity after a concussion: screens, dimming and when to rest

Updated 2026-11-02

Quick answerLight sensitivity is a common symptom after a concussion, and reviews of photophobia list traumatic brain injury among its causes. Dim screens to match the room, use dark mode and avoid flashing content. A head injury followed by a severe headache, vomiting, confusion or drowsiness needs urgent medical care.

What the research says

  • Reviews by Digre and Katz describe photophobia after traumatic brain injury.
  • A 2021 trial found more screen time in the first 48 hours after concussion lengthened recovery (Macnow 2021).

What to change

  • Limit screen time in the first two days, as in the trial.
  • When you use screens, dim them and use dark mode.
  • Avoid dark glasses indoors: they can increase sensitivity (Digre 2012).

When to get help

  • NHS: go to A&E for a headache after a head injury in the last 3 months with other symptoms.
  • See a doctor urgently for a sudden severe headache, new weakness, trouble speaking, loss of vision or confusion (NHS).

FAQ

Should I wear sunglasses indoors after a concussion?

Clinicians advise against routine indoor dark glasses because they can increase light sensitivity.

Is screen time bad after a concussion?

One trial found less screen time in the first 48 hours shortened recovery.

Sources

  • Digre KB, Brennan KC. Shedding light on photophobia. J Neuro-Ophthalmol, 2012. Link
  • Katz BJ, Digre KB. Diagnosis, pathophysiology, and treatment of photophobia. Surv Ophthalmol 2016;61(4):466–477. Link
  • Macnow T et al. Effect of screen time on recovery from concussion: a randomized clinical trial. JAMA Pediatrics, 2021. Link
  • NHS. Headaches: when and where to get medical help. Link

Not a medical device and not medical advice. Migraine Mode is a screen-comfort tool: it does not diagnose, treat, cure or prevent migraine or any other condition, and it does not replace a doctor. Its settings are based on studies of light, colour, flicker, patterns and motion; the extension itself has not been clinically tested. When to see a doctor.