Flashing lights and seizures

Brief flashes may arise from changes in the eye, migraine-related visual symptoms, or stimulation from rapidly changing light. Some people with photosensitive epilepsy have seizures triggered by flickering patterns, but seeing flashes alone is not proof that a seizure is occurring. In pregnancy, flashing lights or blurred vision with severe headache, upper abdominal pain, sudden swelling, or feeling very unwell can be a sign of Pre-eclampsia and needs urgent review.

Move away from flashing screens or patterned light, sit or lie somewhere safe, and note what you saw, how long it lasted, and whether awareness or movement changed. Ask someone to stay with you if possible. If a seizure occurs, they should protect your head, clear nearby objects, turn you on your side after jerking stops, and avoid restraining you or putting anything in your mouth. Arrange medical assessment after a first event.

Call emergency services if a seizure lasts longer than expected, repeats without recovery, causes injury, happens in water, affects breathing, or occurs in someone who is pregnant. Seek urgent care for sudden persistent visual loss, severe headache, confusion, weakness, fainting, or new flashing lights during pregnancy. Do not drive until a clinician has assessed unexplained episodes.

Could these flashes come from my eyes, migraine, or seizure activity? Do I need an eye or neurological assessment? If I am pregnant, should my blood pressure and urine be checked urgently?