Shenzhen Luminlase Technology Co., Ltd.
Light therapy, also known as phototherapy, is a treatment involving exposure to an artificial light source.
The therapy primarily treats major depressive disorder (MDD) with seasonal patterns (formerly known as seasonal affective disorder, or SAD).
This is a type of depression that occurs during a certain time of year, usually in the wintertime when there’s less daylight. Light can also be used to treat other conditions, including sleep disorders and other types of depression.
The research on light therapy gives a few reasons why it may improve the symptoms of depression. Reasons include that it:
-
works on your biological clock by aligning your brain’s 24-hour cycle (aka circadian rhythm)
-
balances the activation of serotonin circuitry in your brain, which is a key component in mood regulation
-
contributes to stable and consistent sleep patterns
-
increases alertness
The extent to which light therapy works for you depends on the light wavelength, duration of use, and your personal circadian rhythm patterns.
Circadian rhythms are cycles of important body functions that happen over a 24-hour cycle and can affect hormones, sleep schedules, and eating habits.
Light therapy compensates for the lack of exposure to sunlight that may contribute to major depressive disorder with seasonal patterns.
During a session, you sit near a light box or lamp, which emits bright light. The box or lamp usually mimics natural sunlight, but there can be variations between devices made by different manufacturers.
The standard output of a light therapy box is in the range of 2,500–10,000 lux. A lux is a measure of light brightness.
Treatments usually begin in the fall and continue until early spring. The length of the session depends on how well you handle the treatment and the strength of the light box.
Guidelines for typical bright light therapy will usually suggest starting with 10,000 lux for 30 minutes every morning, but someone new to the method may require shorter initial treatments. The more powerful the light box, the shorter the treatment session may be.
Side effects
Some people shouldn’t use light therapy, especially those who:
-
have medical conditions that make eyes sensitive to light
-
take medications, like some antibiotics or antipsychotics, that increase light sensitivity
If you’re considering this therapy, you should consult a doctor if you have any of the following conditions:
-
sensitive skin
-
eye conditions
-
a history of skin cancer
Some people may also experience euphoria or irritability, which is a sign to stop using the device and speak with a doctor.
For those who can use light therapy, there are still potential side effects. Usually, these can be dealt with by adjusting the duration, intensity, or timing of the sessions.
Side effects may include:
-
headaches
-
eyestrain
-
agitation
-
irritability
-
problems with sleeping
-
fatigue
-
blurry vision
You can discuss these side effects with a doctor, but you may also find relief through some simple changes. Avoid using the lamp before bedtime to prevent insomnia, and place the light box further away from you to prevent eyestrain and headaches.
Light therapy, also known as phototherapy, is a treatment involving exposure to an artificial light source.
The therapy primarily treats major depressive disorder (MDD) with seasonal patterns (formerly known as seasonal affective disorder, or SAD).
This is a type of depression that occurs during a certain time of year, usually in the wintertime when there’s less daylight. Light can also be used to treat other conditions, including sleep disorders and other types of depression.
- works on your biological clock by aligning your brain’s 24-hour cycle (aka circadian rhythm)
- balances the activation of serotonin circuitry in your brain, which is a key component in mood regulation
- contributes to stable and consistent sleep patterns
- increases alertness
The extent to which light therapy works for you depends on the light wavelength, duration of use, and your personal circadian rhythm patterns.
Circadian rhythms are cycles of important body functions that happen over a 24-hour cycle and can
Light therapy compensates for the lack of exposure to sunlight that may contribute to major depressive disorder with seasonal patterns.
During a session, you sit near a light box or lamp, which emits bright light. The box or lamp usually mimics natural sunlight, but there can be variations between devices made by different manufacturers.
The standard output of a light therapy box is in the range of 2,500–10,000 lux. A lux is a measure of light brightness.
Treatments usually begin in the fall and continue until early spring. The length of the session depends on how well you handle the treatment and the strength of the light box.
Guidelines for typical bright light therapy will usually suggest starting with 10,000 lux for 30 minutes every morning, but someone new to the method may require shorter initial treatments. The more powerful the light box, the shorter the treatment session may be.
Side effects
Some people shouldn’t use light therapy, especially those who:
- have medical conditions that make eyes sensitive to light
- take medications, like some antibiotics or antipsychotics, that increase light sensitivity
If you’re considering this therapy, you should consult a doctor if you have any of the following conditions:
- sensitive skin
- eye conditions
- a history of skin cancer
Some people may also experience euphoria or irritability, which is a sign to stop using the device and speak with a doctor.
For those who can use light therapy, there are still potential side effects. Usually, these can be dealt with by adjusting the duration, intensity, or timing of the sessions.
Side effects may include:
- headaches
- eyestrain
- agitation
- irritability
- problems with sleeping
- fatigue
- blurry vision
You can discuss these side effects with a doctor, but you may also find relief through some simple changes. Avoid using the lamp before bedtime to prevent insomnia, and place the light box further away from you to prevent eyestrain and headaches.