In general, the further away from a light source you are, the lower the lux
value. The lower the lux value, the longer needed to achieve your daily
dose. It is not necessary to stare at the light source during treatment, but it
should be directed at the eye.
Understanding the relationship between lux output and your daily
requirement is important in deciding on a treatment that best fits your
lifestyle. You may choose an intensive, early morning treatment to help
reach your daily dose or a less intrusive continual dose throughout the
morning and early afternoon.
It typically takes three or four days before the benefits of light therapy are
seen and these benefits can be lost in a similar period if the treatment is
not maintained. Sufferers should avoid using a light box too late in the day,
as this can interfere with the production of Melatonin and disturb sleep
routines.
Some side effects, such as sore eyes or a dull headache, may be
experienced during the initial period of light therapy. Some users may find
they feel restless or experience sleep problems. Turning the light box off for
a while will alleviate these effects – there are no long-term ill effects of light
therapy.
Such side effects stem from the duration or way you are using the light box
and can be prevented by varying your regime. It is important to experiment
with your treatment schedule to find the right balance for you – one that
alleviates your SAD symptoms, but does not cause side effects. This can
be achieved by varying the distance at which you are using the light, the
brightness of the light and the period for which you use the light.
0.0
1.0
2.0
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5.0
6.0
7.0
8.0
0
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6000
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12000
10
15
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30
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60
Time (Hour
s)
Lig
ht Intensity (Lux
)
Distance (CM)
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