Strobe Light Seizures & Driving
According to the Epilepsy Foundation, over 3 million Americans experience epilepsy in one form or another. Roughly 3 percent of those (90,000 people) suffer from photosensitive epilepsy, a condition where flashing lights at certain intensities or certain visual patterns can trigger a seizure.
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Natural Sunlight
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The flickering of natural sunlight through trees along a road while driving or off water can trigger events in some individuals. But the frequency and number of flashes per second differ from person to person.
Children and Adolescents
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Photosensitive epilepsy is more prevalent in children and adolescents, especially those with myoclonic epilepsy. As the child grows (and approaches a driving age), the seizures will become less frequent and rarely last beyond the mid-twenties.
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Myoclonic Seizures
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Myoclonic epileptic persons are those that are more likely to have photosensitive epilepsy and have difficulties driving. Such seizures typically begin in early puberty and can continue into adulthood.
Epilepsy and Driving
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It is possible for a person with epilepsy to obtain his driver's license, but each state has laws concerning the process and accessibility. Check with either the Epilepsy Foundation or with your state's department of motor vehicles to learn the procedures.
Seizure
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A seizure is defined as a brief disturbance in the electrical system of the brain and central nervous system. The normal electrical patterns are interrupted that can affect consciousness, bodily movements or sensations for a short period.
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