Teenagers who have light sensitivity after a concussion may have an increased risk of developing emotional problems, like anxiety or depression, stemming from the concussion, according to a study presented at the American Academy of Neurology's Sports Concussion Conference.

The study included teenagers aged 12 to 17 who had lingering symptoms following a concussion (often called post-concussion syndrome). Some of the participants had emotional symptoms due to the concussion, but none had a history of psychological issues prior to the concussion. Emotional symptoms included irritability, aggression, anxiety, depression, apathy, frequent mood changes or excessive emotional reactions.

In the group with emotional symptoms, 23% of the teens had photophobia and 14% were sensitive to light. In the group without emotional symptoms, only 13% were sensitive to light and none to noise. The number of concussions a participant had or whether they had headaches or nausea were unrelated to emotional symptoms, as was a family history of psychiatric conditions.¹

Photophobia is the most common visual symptom following traumatic brain injuries, like concussions.² According to this study, its presence could help alert health care providers, patients and patients' families to potential emotion-related symptoms, thus improving their treatment.

Related Reading: Light Sensitivity & Anxiety ➜

REFERENCES 1. After a Concussion, Which Teens Will Have Emotional Symptoms? American Academy of Neurology press release. Retrieved July 11, 2014 from https://www.aan.com/PressRoom/Home/PressRelease/1296. 2. Richman, E. “Traumatic brain injury and visual disorders: What every Ophthalmologist should know.” Eyenet Magazine. Mar. 2014.