How Do Strobe Lights Cause Seizures?

Overview Of Strobe Lights And Seizures

The specific condition of suffering seizures due to exposure to strobe lights is known as photosensitive epilepsy. Approximately 1 in 20 people suffering from epilepsy experience seizures when they see strobe lights. Strobe lights occur when lights flash between 5 and 30 times in a second. This flashing triggers seizures in people with photosensitive epilepsy.

Details on Seizures Caused by Strobe Lights

Seizures are more likely to happen when strobe lights include geometric shapes or drastic contrasts between light and dark. The brain's primary visual cortex, responsible for processing visual information, is believed to be the culprits behind strobe lights and seizures. People with photosensitive epilepsy have ultra sensitive visual cortices that become overwhelmed by strobe lights. Neurons in the brain go haywire, affecting other parts of the brain and triggering an epileptic seizure.

Advice

People with photosensitive epilepsy are advised to stay away from strobe lights. Products and exhibits which use strobe lights may contain seizure warnings to caution people who suffer from this malady.