Understanding Headaches as a Side Effect of Red Light Therapy
Red light therapy involves exposing the skin to red and near-infrared wavelengths of light. This treatment is gaining popularity due to potential benefits like easing joint pain, improving skin health, reducing inflammation, and healing wounds.
However, some people report developing headaches from red light therapy treatments. As this wellness strategy increases in use, it is important to dive deeper into the possible causes behind red light therapy headache.
How Red Light Therapy Works
Red light therapy devices emit wavelengths between 600-900 nanometers onto the skin. The light interacts with cells and stimulates a response. Red wavelengths specifically target skin cells and muscle tissue.
In theory, this activates healing and rejuvenation mechanisms in the body. The light boosts ATP production and key cell processes. It may also stimulate blood vessel and nerve function. Research continues to uncover the cascading effects red light can have in the body.
Proven Benefits of Red Light Therapy
Studies confirm red light therapy may provide certain benefits, including:
- Increased collagen and elastin production for anti-aging skin effects
- Boosted tissue repair and accelerated wound healing
- Decreased inflammation and chronic joint pain relief
- Enhanced muscle recovery after exercise in athletes
- Improved circulation and oxygenation
What Causes Headaches from Red Light Therapy?
Then why might a treatment with such promising advantages cause side effects like headache in some people? A few key reasons likely contribute.
Incorrect Device Use
How someone administers red light therapy influences Headache likelihood. Staring directly into lights, sitting too close to panels, or exceeding recommended exposure times can strain eyes and cause discomfort.
Repeatedly focusing the beam onto one single spot for a prolonged period can also cause skin irritation and secondary headaches.
Underlying Photosensitivity
Certain individuals have general sensitivities to light stimulation, especially bright artificial light. Just as flashing lights, screens, or loud noises can trigger headaches in those prone to overstimulation, so too can red light devices.
Underlying migraine disorders or other health conditions may also predispose someone towards red light intolerance and headaches.
The Healing Response
Red light therapy headache may occasionally signal the normal “healing response” rather than true side effect. The provocation of cells by red light wavelengths sets off a chain of biological processes. Flushing toxins and cell debris from tissue can temporarily exacerbate symptoms before improvement sets in.
It is not fully understood whether red light therapy headache stems from this natural cleansing response or not. But it remains a plausible explanation behind early discomfort in some people.
Reducing Headache Risk
You can optimize red light therapy safety and effects by carefully managing use. Follow these best practice tips to minimize headache likelihood:
Start Low, Go Slow
When first using red light therapy, begin conservatively with short 5-10 minute sessions at comfortable intensities. Allow the body to adapt slowly before increasing exposure times and frequencies.
Pay Attention to Body Signals
Listen if your body communicates discomfort. Discontinue use and consult with your physician if headaches remain persistent or severe.
Follow Recommendations
Adhere to the specific usage guidelines provided by light therapy device manufacturers related to exposure distances and session length limits.
Consider Protective Eyewear
Wearing protective glasses ensures light does not overstimulate retinal cells. Verify the glasses adequately block red/NIR wavelengths.
Hydration is Key
Proper hydration minimizes side effects linked to red light detoxification. Drink extra water before and after treatment to aid lymphatic drainage pathways.
Using Red Light for Headache Relief
When used appropriately, red light therapy shows potential benefits for multiple types of chronic head pain relief. Targeting light onto specific trigger points can alleviate discomfort associated with:
- Tension headaches
- Sinus pressure
- Migraine pain
- Jaw and toothaches
Mechanisms Behind Headache Soothing Effects
Red light transitions cells from weaker metabolic states to more optimal functioning. This has widespread impacts that can influence headache pain, including:
- Reduced inflammation
- Improved circulation
- Increased oxygen
- Balanced Nervous system
Human studies demonstrate red light therapy successfully decreases headache frequency, intensity and duration. It can work both acutely to halt pain during attacks and as maintenance for overall improvement.
Treatment Protocols for Headache Relief
To leverage red light for headaches, home and clinical devices allow self-treatment of key trigger areas. Recommended protocols often suggest:
- Daily 5-10 minute sessions for a minimum of 2 weeks
- Applying light to temples, jaw, neck, sinus areas
- Combining red light with infrared and/or blue wavelengths
Improvements accumulate so consistency matters most. Keep a headache diary to identify patterns and optimize benefits over time.
The Takeaway: Weighing Pros and Cons of Red Light
As with any therapeutic intervention, red light therapy involves both potential upsides and downsides. It stands as one tool to evaluate through careful and conscious personal experimentation. Tracking benefits relative to side effects allows determining if worthwhile for any one individual.
Minimizing headache likelihood centers on calibrating equipment use to your unique physiology and sensitivities. Correct red light therapy dosage should not induce lasting pain. Handle emerging discomfort as cue to shift protocols and optimize for gains outweighing losses.
FAQs
Why does red light therapy cause headaches?
Reasons may include incorrect device use like staring into lights, underlying photosensitivity issues, or potentially the body's natural healing response stirring up symptoms temporarily.
How can I stop headaches from red light therapy?
Start with short exposure times and increase slowly. Follow equipment guidelines and wear protective eyewear. Stay hydrated and discontinue use if headaches persist or worsen.
Can red light therapy help chronic headaches?
Yes, multiple studies demonstrate red light therapy decreases frequency, intensity and duration of tension headaches, migraines and more when applied to trigger point areas.
What is the best red light therapy for headaches?
Clinical devices allow targeted headache treatment protocols. At-home panels with red/near infrared wavelengths can also provide headache relief when used properly at temples, neck, jaw and sinus areas.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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