Which symptom might indicate a more severe form of orbital cellulitis?

Photophobia, or sensitivity to light, can indicate a more severe form of orbital cellulitis because it often suggests increased inflammation and irritation within the eye or surrounding structures. In cases of orbital cellulitis, the infection can involve the eye muscles and optic nerve, leading to complications that affect visual function or cause pain, particularly when exposed to light.

The presence of photophobia may also signal the possibility of associated issues like meningitis or decreased vision, which necessitates prompt medical evaluation and treatment. In contrast, symptoms such as increased energy, improved appetite, or less eye discharge would not be typical signs of a worsening condition; indeed, they could suggest a more stable or uncomplicated state rather than one that has escalated.