Photosensitive/Epilepsy Seizure Warning
Important Health Warning About Playing Video Games
A very small percentage of people may experience a seizure when exposed to certain visual images, including flashing lights or patterns that may appear in video games. Even people who have no history of seizures or epilepsy may have an undiagnosed condition that can cause these "photosensitive epileptic seizures" while playing or watching video games.
These seizures may have a variety of symptoms, including:
- Altered vision
- Eye or face twitching
- Involuntary jerking or shaking of arms or legs
- Momentary loss of awareness.
Seizures may also cause loss of consciousness or convulsions that can lead to injury from falling down or hitting oneself on nearby objects. Immediately stop playing and consult a doctor if you experience any of these symptoms. Parents should watch for or ask their children about the above symptoms - children and teenagers are more likely than adults to experience these seizures.
The risk of photosensitive epileptic seizures may be reduced by taking the following precautions:
- Do not sit too close to the screen.
- Preferably play the game on a small screen.
- Avoid playing if you are tired or have not had much sleep.
- Make sure that the room in which you are playing is well lit.
- Rest for at least 10 to 15 minutes per hour while playing a video game.
If you or your child experience any of the health problems or symptoms due to playing a video game, consult a doctor or physician immediately.