Is it true that energy saving light bulbs are bad for people who have Lupus or other auto immune diseases?

Question

I read this, but my husband doesn't believe it because he really wants what is best for the environment.

I put this under environment, because he is more likely to believe someone with environmental knowledge than health knowledge. Yes, Mother Nature comes first with him..

Answer 1

Well, that shouldn't even be a consideration. How can you be so selfish as to worry about someone's potential health problems and refuse to conserve energy? If Mother Nature comes first with him maybe you should find someone to come first with you?

Answer 2

Not at all.  The only difference may be the spectrum of light they give off (colour).  Other than that there are no health benefits or health drawbacks associated with changing lightbulbs.

Answer 3

I know I used these bulbs in the apartment I lived and saved over $300 per year on my electric bill. lso, I suggested to an apartment building owner about these bulbs and there save $1000's per year on electricity costs. How can anyone find harm with these bulbs? Also, I learned, it does save a lot to keep only the refrigerator plugged in when not home. I un-plug my computer, internet modem, microwave oven, except when I'm using them. I also un-plug the radios, tv sets, and cable and save a considerable amount on electricity. Last month, even using an air conditioner part of the time, my electric usage was $6.84 for the ENTIRE month! I'd say I'm being green, and saving $hundreds per year doing all these simple things. I do not know of anything bad for your health with these light bulbs either.

Answer 4

Many people with lupus are photosensitive. UVA and UVB light is emitted from energy saving light bulbs and flourescents. Some people put filters over their flourescents.

UVA and UVB light can aggravate lupus in the skin and even cause the kidneys to flare in systemic lupus.

Answer 5

I am guessing you are afraid of the ultraviolet rays from the fluorescent bulbs. According to the LUPUS Foundation, "if the standard fluorescent tube lighting source is shielded by a standard acrylic plastic diffuser, there's virtually not significant risk for people with systemic lupus." I do energy efficient lighting so I understand what the are saying here. Basically if you have a plastic or acrylic lens over the fixture that has your fluorescent lamps in it...you should be okay.

Answer 6

Over exposure to fluorescent bulbs depletes the body's stores of vitamin A.  It also breaks down vitamin D which is why it is best to buy milk in the paper cartons rather than the plastic containers.  For healthy people, this is a non-issue.  However, for people with auto-immune diseases it may be a problem.  If I had a health problem that may be worsened by the use of fluorescent bulbs, I would simply use a different type of bulb.