Low-energy bulbs can trigger migraine, seizures and pain

Save the planet, get a headache?

 
Some U.K. health experts say energy-saving light bulbs may trigger migraines in people prone to the condition, according to a report in Britain's Daily Mail.

 
British government officials have been inundated with complaints about energy-saving fluorescent bulbs, which will be mandated for use in homes within four years. 
Advocates want the government to allow people with health problems to continue using conventional incandescent bulbs with a filament and say eco-friendly bulbs can trigger dizziness, loss of focus and discomfort among people with epilepsy.

 
There have also been complaints from people with lupus — an auto-immune disease causing many symptoms including pain.

Energy-saving light bulbs could trigger migraines, say campaigners.

The Migraine Action Association says members have told them how fluorescent bulbs have led to attacks.

The government is set to prevent the sale of conventional light bulbs within the next four years in a bid to cut carbon dioxide emissions.

Concerns have already been raised by epilepsy charities about an increased risk of seizures from energy-saving bulbs.

The charity's Paul Jansen said: "For some people a migraine attack can be triggered by fluorescent lights, video screens, stroboscopic effects and flashing lights.

 
"Most of the currently available low energy light bulbs are based on fluorescent light technology.

 
"We hope that the Government will allow regular light bulbs still to be available to those who need them.'

 
The Government has acknowledged low energy bulbs could pose a problem.

 
In a written parliamentary answer, Health Minister Ivan Lewis said: "It is known some people with epilepsy may be affected by energy saving light bulbs."

 
The Lighting Association denied that flicker was a problem with modern energy saving bulbs.

 
"Compact fluorescent lamps give a constant, flicker-free, nonstroboscopic light," said spokesman Jo Jackson.

 
She warned against poor quality, cheap lamps, saying: "A small number of cases have been reported by people who suffer from reactions to certain types of linear (straight line) fluorescent lamps.

 
"These were almost certainly triggered by old technology."

 
A spokesman for the Energy Saving Trust said: "The technology has changed massively over the last few years. We would advise people to only buy bulbs with the Energy Saving Recommended - SR - logo."