Long-Term Computer Use & Seizures

In some people, exposure to flickering or bright images on computer video screens can cause seizures. These seizures only occur in people who have a relatively rare pre-existing version of epilepsy called photosensitive epilepsy.

Photo-Sensitive Epilepsy

• About 3 to 5 percent of people with epilepsy have a specific condition called photosensitive epilepsy. People with this condition sometimes experience seizures when exposed to flickering lights, such as some computer screens.

Seizures

• For people with photosensitive epilepsy, their brains react to certain patterns of light by producing a flurry of activity that triggers seizures. The specific mechanism by which this happens, however, is poorly understood.

Development

• Photosensitive epilepsy is a genetic condition, so people are likely to inherit it from their parents. The condition usually develops early in life and most people have their first seizure before the age of 20. People who do not have this condition will not have seizures related to computer use.

Long-Term Use

• Seizures happen more frequently when a subject is tired and suffering from eye strain. As a result, people with photosensitive epilepsy should avoid using computers or playing video games for extended periods of time.

Prevention

• People with photo-sensitive epilepsy can buy flicker-free screens which do not trigger seizures. Also, sitting far away from the screen and regularly refocusing your eyes on something far away, like looking out a window, reduces the risk.