About 3 to 5 percent of people with epilepsy can have their seizures triggered by flashing lights. These individuals may also have an abnormal response to strobe lights during an EEG test. This is more likely to affect persons with generalized epilepsies, including juvenile myoclonic epilepsy, then in people who have partial seizures.

There are many possible sources of flashing lights, including natural sunlight filtered through trees or other objects, artificial lights (especially flickering, malfunctioning fluorescent lighting), cathode ray tube television screens, video games, and patterns from Venetian blinds, rolling escalators, striped walls and striped clothing.

Tips for managing flashing lights

Avoiding flashing lights is the best way to minimize the risk. If someone is exposed to flashing lights, then closing and covering the eyes can be helpful. Recommendations for television viewing that include the following:

1. Watch television in a well-lit room to reduce the contrast between the screen light and background light;
2. Reduce the brightness of the screen;
3. Keep as far back from the screen as possible (minimum five feet);
4. Use remote controls to ensure proper distance from the television is maintained;
5. Use small screens. When watching large screens, increase the distance from the screen.

For more information:

• Flashing Lights

Topic Editor: Steven C. Schachter, MD and Patricia O. Shafer, RN, MN.
Last Reviewed: 9/30/08