Fireworks and Epilepsy? Photosensitivity!

Hello, my blog following friends!

Sorry, it’s been a year (or two).  I only seem to write when inspiration hits me, like now, it’s 9:30 pm on July 3rd, and as I was heading to bed, boom! Like a firecracker, inspiration hit me! I should post a blog about Epilepsy and fireworks! A type of seizure, called Photosensitivity, affects a group of people. Photosensitivity is a reason we see warnings on video games, movies, and even rides!

Epilepsy and Fireworks, oh my! Though most people with Epilepsy will not be triggered by fireworks, there is a group of people who are. There is also a group of people, like me, who get migraines triggered by fireworks, too. The loud booms and flashing lights send my head spinning, which triggers a migraine, and in others… a seizure! Photosensitive seizures usually have other types of seizures (Myoclonic, Tonic-Clonic, Absences, and Focal), but it could also be a stand-alone diagnosis. They can be triggered by something like stripes on a shirt, wall, flashing strobe lights, or even shadows on the road, like my son had (as we drove to and from school).

Remember those fun flashing social media posts that dance like a strobe light? I hate them! Instant trigger for me! If they trigger me, they centrally trigger others too. I’m also triggered by cop cars’ lights, ambulances, sand trucks, and anyone else using flashing lights (like a strobe) to get drivers’ attention, especially in the dark.

So, when you’re out enjoying the fireworks and see someone acting strange, they could be having a seizure. Just remember to stay calm, call 911 if it lasts longer than 5 minutes, or if it’s their first seizure.

Happy 4th of July, my American followers!