What is photosensetive epilsey?
Photosensitive epilepsy is a rare form of epilepsy that is triggered by flashing or flickering lights. It can cause seizures in people who do not have any other form of epilepsy.
Symptoms of photosensitive epilepsy
The symptoms of photosensitive epilepsy can vary from person to person. Some of the most common symptoms include:
* Seizures: These can range from brief staring spells to full-blown seizures that involve loss of consciousness and convulsions.
* Headache: This is a common symptom of photosensitive epilepsy, and it can be severe.
* Nausea: This is another common symptom of photosensitive epilepsy.
* Dizziness: This can also be a symptom of photosensitive epilepsy.
* Visual disturbances: These can include seeing spots or flashes of light, or having difficulty focusing.
Triggers of photosensitive epilepsy
The most common trigger of photosensitive epilepsy is flashing or flickering lights. These can be found in a variety of places, including:
* Televisions: The refresh rate of a television can cause the image to flicker, which can trigger a seizure in someone with photosensitive epilepsy.
* Computer screens: The refresh rate of a computer screen can also cause the image to flicker, which can trigger a seizure in someone with photosensitive epilepsy.
* Video games: Video games can contain flashing or flickering lights that can trigger a seizure in someone with photosensitive epilepsy.
* Strobe lights: Strobe lights are often used in nightclubs and at concerts, and they can trigger a seizure in someone with photosensitive epilepsy.
* Sunlight: Sunlight can also trigger a seizure in someone with photosensitive epilepsy.
Treatment for photosensitive epilepsy
There is no cure for photosensitive epilepsy, but there are treatments that can help to control the seizures. Some of the most common treatments include:
* Anti-epileptic drugs: These medications can help to prevent seizures from happening.
* Avoiding triggers: People with photosensitive epilepsy should avoid any activities or situations that could trigger a seizure.
* Wearing sunglasses: Wearing sunglasses can help to reduce the amount of light that reaches the eyes, which can help to prevent a seizure.
* Using special filters: There are special filters that can be used on televisions and computer screens to reduce the amount of flickering light that is emitted.
If you think you may have photosensitive epilepsy, it is important to see a doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent serious injuries.