Optical Seizures
Optical seizures are a type of epileptic seizure that is the result of photosensitivity. Photosensitive epilepsy is the condition that contributes to optical seizures. Optical seizures can be the result of television viewing, video-game play or other intense optical stimuli.
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Definition
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Medline Plus, a U.S. government health website, defines seizures (also referred to as "fits" or "convulsions") as "episodes of disturbed brain function that cause changes in attention or behavior," and says they are "caused by abnormally excited electrical signals in the brain."
Optical seizures are those which are induced through hypersensitivity to light stimulation.
Triggers
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Playing video games can also contribute to optical seizures in those genetically predisposed. Television and video games are cited as two examples of the type of stimuli that can trigger optical seizures. Further, U.S. Aid for the American People, a government policy-advising publication, states, "Some graphics or video presentations can flicker at very high rates (an example may be a banner ad that is trying to get your attention) and can induce optical seizures in some individuals with photosensitive epilepsy."
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Prevalence
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Five percent of those aged 5 to 24 who have epileptic seizures are affected by optical seizures due to photosensitivity. Ten percent of those in the 7-to-19-year-old range are affected with optical seizures.
However, researchers at the University Schleswig-Holstein in Germany indicate that photosensitivity can be a contributing factor in up to 74 percent of those with epilepsy, though not necessarily directly causing optical seizures.
Considerations
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Researchers recommend avoiding stimuli such as TV and video games, which can contribute to optical seizures, as a preventive measure.
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References
- Photo Credit remote control image by Fantasista from Fotolia.com Video Game Gear image by Alhazm Salemi from Fotolia.com
