Originally Posted by MrSelfDestruct

Fluorescent lights emit a narrower spectrum of visible light than incandescents and can produce symptoms similar to seasonal affective disorder. Additionally, certain ballasts cause a 60hz flicker (50hz in Europe) which can trigger migraines or casue eyestrain; I know they can for me. Certain lights can also emit a high pitched whine on the edge of the audible spectrum, similar to the sound of a CRT's flyback transformer. This sound makes me feel sick to my stomach and makes my mind feel clouded and less sharp than usual.