Update on Visually-provoked (Photosensitive) Epilepsy from the Epilepsy Foundation of America

BOWIE, Md., February 18, 2026 — A published expert FAQ from February 2025 and an international consensus statement from November 2025 provide an updated summary of what clinicians, patients, caregivers, and the broader epilepsy community need to know about visually provoked (photosensitive) epilepsy. Visually-provoked epilepsy is also referred to in scientific literature as photosensitive epilepsy/seizures. These communications, led by international epileptologists together with the Epilepsy Foundation of America, revisit longstanding issues regarding this form of reflex epilepsy and bring practical guidance into sharper focus for 2026 and beyond. 

Visually-provoked epilepsy remains the most common form of reflex epilepsy, where seizures are triggered by specific visual stimuli such as rapidly flashing lights or certain high-contrast patterns. The FAQ document from February 2025 was developed directly from questions by people with epilepsy, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. The document emphasizes that visually-provoked seizures can occur in people of all ages and types of epilepsy, though they are especially common in adolescence and in certain epilepsy syndromes. This article clarifies the distinction between EEG (photoparoxysmal) responses, which indicate sensitivity to visual stimuli on an electroencephalogram (EEG test), vs. actual light-provoked seizures, and outlines how physicians use clinical history and EEG testing to make a diagnosis. The FAQs also address prevention strategies. These include awareness of known triggers, reducing exposure, and the practical use of safety settings on digital devices. The document explains that visually provoked seizures can be passed down (genetic). Many people outgrow visually sensitive seizures, and the likelihood of this happening depends on the specific type of epilepsy.

The international consensus from the November 2025 report expands on earlier guidance by reviewing the broader implications of visually-provoked seizures for patients and families, clinicians, and professionals in media and design industries. It reiterates that bright flashes in the approximate 10–20 Hz range, repetitive color flashes, and certain repetitive stripe patterns are among the most triggering visual content for certain people with epilepsy. Beyond clinical recommendations, the consensus recommends videogame developers, filmmakers, and other media creators to avoid such triggering stimuli and encourages architects and regulatory bodies to consider visual patterns in public spaces that might pose risks. The report also discusses the role of diagnostic tools in evaluating people with suspected visually-provoked seizures, and it calls for ongoing research, surveillance, and public education to further reduce the risk of visually-provoked seizures as technology and visual media continue to evolve. 

To learn more, the Epilepsy Foundation of America recommends reading both the FAQ publication and consensus statement in full. Both publications update the community on the state of knowledge about visually-provoked seizures and reinforce the importance of clinical care and social awareness about the challenges of reflex epilepsy.

About Epilepsy

Epilepsy is the most common chronic brain disorder in the world, affecting people of all ages, races, and backgrounds. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 3.4 million Americans live with active epilepsy. The condition is defined by a tendency to experience seizures—sudden, abnormal bursts of electrical activity in the brain that can disrupt behavior, awareness, and bodily control. Beyond seizures, epilepsy can also lead to challenges such as fatigue, memory difficulties, mood changes, anxiety, and trouble concentrating, all of which can significantly impact daily life. Visit epilepsy.com to learn more.

About the Epilepsy Foundation of America

The Epilepsy Foundation America is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of people affected by epilepsy through education, advocacy, research, and connection. For more than 50 years, the Foundation has led efforts to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and advocate for policies that make a meaningful difference for individuals living with epilepsy. We also fund cutting-edge research and support early-career investigators working to discover new treatments and therapies. Through our nationwide network of local offices and community partners, the Foundation expands access to care, provides seizure recognition and first aid training, and delivers direct services to those in need. To learn more visit epilepsy.com or call 1.800.332.1000; in Spanish at 866.748.8008 or laepilepsia.org. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok, and YouTube.