Photophobia

A genuine physiological sensitivity to bright light, flickering light, or intense visual patterns that causes symptoms such as headaches, migraines, nausea, dizziness, and disorientation. Despite its name suggesting a psychological fear, photophobia involves real neurological and physiological responses. It is more common than photosensitive epilepsy and can be triggered by frequencies and patterns that others may not notice. Photophobia is particularly disruptive in digital environments where flashing graphics, high-contrast animations, and auto-playing content are pervasive. Current web accessibility standards primarily address seizure-inducing flashing but may not fully protect people with broader photophobic symptoms.