How to Make Fluorescent Lights More Bearable

Fluorescent lighting is a very prominent way to light professional areas, such as hospitals schools and businesses. Prolonged exposure to fluorescent lighting can have adverse affects on the ocular system, particularly if the person already has a sensitivity to light. People with prescription eye wear or contact lenses also are at a higher risk for experiencing discomfort and even head or eye aches from fluorescent lighting. Using lower wattage energy-saving bulbs, practicing eye relieving exercises and obtaining special light-resistant eyewear are all methods that help make fluorescent lighting more bearable.

Things You'll Need

• Energy-saving fluorescent bulbs
• Light-sensitive corrective eyewear

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Instructions

• 1

  Replace all the fluorescent bulbs in the living or working area with a lower-wattage, energy-saving fluorescent bulb. Pick a bulb that is at least 25 watts lower in intensity than the previous bulb. Turn the light switch to the lighting off. Wait for the bulb to cool.

• 2

  Grab the bulb from both ends and twist until it unlocks from its cradle. Throw away the old bulb. Place the new bulb inside the light cradle and twist it until it locks into place with a "click" noise. Turn on the lights.

• 3

  Take "eye breaks" every 20 minutes if the fluorescent lighting can not be replaced. Pick an object 20 feet away from the work or living area. Stare at the object for 20 seconds every 20 minutes to re-focus the eyes, and keep ambient light out.

• 4

  Speak to an optometrist if the pain from the light continues. Ask the doctor if light-sensitive eyewear is a viable option or if the light-sensitive coating can be applied to current corrective lenses.