Linear UVBs versus LED UVB linear bulbs

[Goose502]

As I understand it, the compact fluorescents distribute the same wavelengths as a linear bulb would. The problem is that the small and narrow “cone” it puts out has a very concentrated beam of those spectrums. Early compact flourecents had abnormally high concentrations of UVC, which is harmful and more of a manufacturing defect. The newer bulbs are more safe, but still concentrate all the spectrums of UV into very narrow cones of light. These concentrated cones are irritating for many reptiles not by their visual brightness, but the narrow band of UVA, UVB, and UVC to put out.

 

[Vnessinessa]

When I got my baby veiled last summer, I bought a 10.0 compact reptisun uvb and it was doing something to his eyes. Only when I removed it completely he was ok and never closes his eyes again during the day. I switched to a 18’ T8 fixture from Zilla, but I got an arcadia bulb (the 5.0 D3 T8 uvb) to put in the fixture. When he got older I got a 24 inch t5 reptisun fixture and 5.0 bulb. For basking I use a 100 watts megaray but only because my cage is homemade and 48’’ high. Hope it helped

I appreciate the information so much! It helped a lot!

 

[Vnessinessa]

I really, really appreciate all the information everyone! I have made the proper changes so hopefully his eye can heal!!

Ps... I am using a 150 watt for the basking spot and the highest temp is only 84 f! Argggg

 

[blue_cham]

I am so sorry you are going through the same struggles. His eye problems are only on his right eye as well...are you using a linear light? I hope your guy gets better.... that is why I went for a second opinion. And my God, I am happy I did because he actually went under the skin of his eye and flushed it out and already looking better, but far from good.

Thanks. And sounds like your second opinion vet is pretty good with chams. Mine is reptile experienced but chams are not a specialty of hers, although she has been consulting with cham specialists online/phone during this whole ordeal. We are doing xrays and bloodwork next. She can't find anything wrong with the eye itself and is looking for internal causes *sigh*

My guy actually has same light that you just bought! Ha! When I first got him I used a compact but switched to linear after few months. I had read that the compacts are not so good. I have since learned too that there used to be a UVC leakage problem years back with certain brands which caused eye issues. But! I like the linear and like that it covers more area.

 

[Vnessinessa]

Thanks. And sounds like your second opinion vet is pretty good with chams. Mine is reptile experienced but chams are not a specialty of hers, although she has been consulting with cham specialists online/phone during this whole ordeal. We are doing xrays and bloodwork next. She can't find anything wrong with the eye itself and is looking for internal causes *sigh*

My guy actually has same light that you just bought! Ha! When I first got him I used a compact but switched to linear after few months. I had read that the compacts are not so good. I have since learned too that there used to be a UVC leakage problem years back with certain brands which caused eye issues. But! I like the linear and like that it covers more area.

Oh man...that sou ds pricey, but I guess you have to do wha you have to do. I hope you are able to come to a conclusion as to why you are still having light issues. Yea! I really like this new vet...he said he would not charge me for the appointment if I go get proper lighting. I am pretty amazed that he did that for me. Especially since his is the first time going to him. I really hope my problem will be solved. Ugh...thanks for the information!

 

[Vnessinessa]

I just want to update everyone! I got my new light set up, and lone behold....His eye is healing! It only took 3 vet visits to figure out that he didnt need antibiotics, anti inflammatories, pain meds, or eye drops...He needed a linear bulb the entire time! His eye is far from perfect, but it is improving drastically after 3 months! Ugh....and of course now he is finally starting to eat again since his body isn't needing to deal with the stomach upset from antibiotics. Wow...such an easy fix, but I had no clue ...

 

[blue_cham]

Nice vet! Glad your cham baby is on the mend! It's hard to believe such simple changes make the difference. Did the vet mention specifically what it is about the compact that causes eye irritation?