Potential side effects of light therapy are rare and most often can include:
Eyestrain, jitteriness, headache, agitation, nausea, vomiting, irritability, fatigue, dry mouth, sleep problems and mania.
Side effects are usually mild, if they do occur. After a few days of light therapy, they tend to go away on their own. ¬†The easiest way to manage these problems by reducing treatment time, moving farther from your light box, taking breaks during long sessions, or changing the time of day you use light therapy. But talk to your doctor for additional help and advice, or if your side effects don’t go away or get worse.
Should You Not Use Light Therapy?
There are some light boxes don’t filter out or shield harmful ultraviolet (UV) light. UV light can cause skin and eye damage, just like in a tanning bed. Individuals taking certain medications such as Lithium, tricyclic antidepressants, and neuroleptic and individuals with¬†conditions¬†such as diabetes or retinal degeneration should be monitored by an ophthalmologist. ¬†Consulting your doctor first if you are taking medications that react with sunlight, your skins is sensitive to light or if you have an eye condition that makes your eyes vulnerable to light damage.
Concerns for Bipolar Disorder, Severe Depression
Light therapy, like antidepressant medications, occasionally will cause someone to switch into a manic state. Be sure to talk to your doctor or mental health provider before starting light therapy or at any time during treatment if your condition gets worse.
Reference to Mayo Clinic http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/light-therapy/MY00195