What Is Photosensitive Epilepsy And How Can It Be Managed?

While a person may think their life is incredibly difficult with photosensitive epilepsy, they can be aware of the triggers and modify their surroundings to suit their needs. Read on to know from a doctor how one can effectively control their epilepsy.

Photosensitive epilepsy: There are many people who experience epileptic episodes, mainly seizures, triggered by flashing lights. This is known as photosensitive epilepsy, which accounts for up to 5 per cent of all epilepsy cases. Dr Pawan Ojha, director of neurology at Fortis Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi says that when one is exposed to flashing lights, an electroencephalogram (EEG) may reveal 'aberrant brain activity'. He cautions that it can be alarming at a time like this, when screen time is an incredibly common aspect of daily life. With many people staring at their screens for hours on end, the flashing of lights from computers, smartphones, and televisions can cause photosensitive seizures. Read on to find out more about this condition.

What Triggers Epilepsy?

Dr Ojha explains that epilepsy can be brought on by any 'flickering' or 'quickly changing' visual material, as well as by 'high contrast visual patterns' like stripes or a background with checks. Photosensitive epilepsy, according to him, is twice as common in females than in males. And, it is more common in those between the ages of 7 years and 19 years. "Seizures can also be brought on by playing video games, watching animated videos. The risk of seizures is increased by brighter lights, flashing lights that flash 15 25 times per second, red light, and prolonged exposure to triggering lights," the expert states.

According to the doctor, while the flickering can be reduced by adjusting screen parameters like contrast and brightness, for patients prone to photosensitive seizures, it is better to stay away from digital content with seizure warnings.

"Turn away from potential triggers and cover one eye with the palm of your hand if you are in an area that could cause a seizure. A flicker effect may result from closing your eyes," the doctor cautions, adding that the person must ensure there are no flashes around them, and that motion animations are disabled. "To some extent, photosensitive epilepsy can be avoided by utilising colours with a proper contrast ratio and avoiding backgrounds with distinctive patterns like stripes, bars, or a checkerboard."

Other Strategies To Avoid A Seizure

Some other strategies to avoid a seizure include watching television in a well-lit area, lowering the screen's brightness, sitting as far away from the screen as possible, avoiding prolonged viewing, and wearing sunglasses to reduce glare, the doctor recommends.

"While playing video games, one must lower the screen's brightness, take frequent breaks, and avoid blinking while watching the screen. For computer monitors, use a monitor glare guard or a flicker-free monitor, and play any PC game in a smaller window mode rather than full screen mode. Additionally, use social media safely by turning off auto play in settings to lessen your exposure to unexpected triggers," he adds.

The doctor concludes by saying that one may continue to lead a normal life by increasing their knowledge and awareness about seizures, which can help them change their perspective. "Many countries have come up with regulations that require TV programs and news stories to provide a warning if there are going to be high levels of flashes. Most people who suffer from photosensitive epilepsy can lead happy lives when they learn to successfully identify and avoid triggers," says Dr Ojha.