Light Therapy & Eye Health

[J200888]

My psychiatrist suggested that I purchase an SAD light therapy box to treat my depression.  I have read that some of them can cause long-term eye damage such as macular degeneration.  However, vendors selling the boxes claim that purchasing a light box that does not produce UV rays poses no risks.  Other than the UV rays, is there any other risk of eye damage that comes from light therapy?

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

The one I use is made by SunBox and is the Sunlight Jr. I don't use it as much as a family member that lives in Seattle.

JCH MD

[J200888]

Thanks for the quick reply!  Do you have a specific brand or unit that you would recommend?

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

My understanding is the commercial light sources do not damage the macula. I have used them and the only problem I got is if use them in late evening it causes me insomnia.

JCH MD