light therapy

medical therapy

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July 1, 2026

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Light therapy, also known as phototherapy, is a medical treatment that uses controlled exposure to light to address various conditions, primarily seasonal affective disorder (SAD). SAD is a mood disorder characterized by depression that recurs during autumn and winter, linked to shorter daylight hours. Symptoms include fatigue, oversleeping, overeating, and withdrawal.

Light therapy involves using a light box to expose the individual to bright light, typically in the morning, to help regulate circadian rhythms and alleviate depressive symptoms. Other treatments for SAD can include exercise, antidepressant medications, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Intense visible light is also used in treating newborns' jaundice by expediting the detoxification and elimination of bilirubin.

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seasonal affective disorder
…primary treatment for SAD is light therapy, which involves exposing the affected person to bright light, usually from a fixture called a light box. Fluorescent light tubes placed behind a screen that filters out potentially harmful ultraviolet rays are commonly used. Fixtures using light-emitting diodes also may be effective, though…
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…primary treatment for SAD is light therapy, which involves exposing the affected person to bright light, usually from a fixture called a light box. Fluorescent light tubes placed behind a screen that filters out potentially harmful ultraviolet rays are commonly used. Fixtures using light-emitting diodes also may be effective, though…
Read More