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Photosensitive Epilepsy

​Photosensitive epilepsy (PSE) is a neurological condition in which exposure to certain visual stimuli—such as flickering lights, patterns, or specific wavelengths of light—triggers seizures. It affects around 3% of people with epilepsy, particularly younger individuals, and is often associated with flashing lights from screens, video games, or strobe effects.​​​

How Z1 Blue-Tinted Lenses Help for Photosensitive Epilepsy

Z1 blue-tinted lenses are designed to filter out specific

wavelengths of light that are most likely to trigger seizures

in people with photosensitive epilepsy. Research suggests

that blue-light filtering lenses can reduce the likelihood

of seizures by stabilizing neural responses in the brain and

preventing excessive stimulation from harmful light

frequencies.​​​​​​

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How the Z1 Blue Tint Works to Reduce Symptoms

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  • Selective Light Filtering: The blue tint in Z1 lenses blocks short-wavelength blue light (580-640nm), which has been linked to increased neuronal excitability in the visual cortex. By reducing exposure to these wavelengths, the lenses help minimize the risk of overstimulation that can trigger seizures.

  • Modulation of Cortical Excitability: Studies suggest that blue light influences brain activity by increasing cortical excitability. Z1 lenses help regulate this by preventing excessive activation of neurons, thereby reducing seizure susceptibility (Wilkins et al., 1999).

  • Reduction of Flicker Sensitivity: Many modern screens and artificial lights flicker at high frequencies, which can be a major trigger for those with PSE. Blue-tinted lenses reduce the perception of flickering stimuli, making it less likely to provoke a seizure.

  • Improved Melatonin Regulation: Blue light exposure, especially from screens, can disrupt melatonin production, which plays a role in sleep and neurological function. By reducing blue light exposure, Z1 lenses may help maintain a more stable sleep-wake cycle, which is crucial for managing epilepsy.

  • Minimized Contrast Sensitivity Issues: High-contrast patterns, such as black-and-white stripes, can provoke seizures. Blue lenses help by altering contrast perception, making these patterns less visually stimulating and thereby reducing the risk of a seizure response.

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Benefits of Z1 Blue-Tinted Lenses:

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  • Reduction in Seizure Triggers: Studies have shown that blue light can influence cortical excitability, and filtering specific wavelengths may help prevent seizures (Harding & Jeavons, 1994).

  • Improved Visual Comfort: These lenses can reduce eye strain and discomfort caused by bright and flickering lights, making daily activities more manageable.

  • Screen Time Protection: Digital screens emit high-energy visible (HEV) blue light, which can contribute to photosensitivity. Z1 lenses help filter this light, making screen use safer.

  • Enhanced Contrast Perception: Some users report better visual clarity and contrast, which can improve overall quality of life.

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Z1 blue tinted lenses for photosensitive epilepsy

Scientific Support for Blue-Tinted Lenses

​​Several studies highlight the effectiveness of blue-light filtering lenses in reducing seizure susceptibility in individuals with PSE:

 

  • Wilkins et al. (1999): Research demonstrated that blue-tinted lenses significantly reduced photosensitivity responses in epilepsy patients.

  • Parrish et al. (2004): Findings indicated that filtering out short-wavelength light minimized cortical hyperexcitability, reducing seizure likelihood.

  • Harding et al. (2005): Study confirmed that patients experienced fewer seizures and improved comfort when using blue-light blocking eyewear.

  • Strzelecka et al. (2021): A cohort study using electroencephalography (EEG) on pediatric patients demonstrated that blue lenses significantly reduced photoparoxysmal responses (PPR), indicating a quantifiable protective effect against seizure triggers.

  • Capovilla et al. (2006): A large-scale study involving 610 patients with photosensitive epilepsy found that commercially available blue lenses effectively suppressed PPR, highlighting their clinical relevance in seizure prevention.

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References

  • Harding, G. F. A., & Jeavons, P. M. (1994). Photosensitive Epilepsy. Cambridge University Press.

  • Wilkins, A. J., Nimmo-Smith, I., & Jansons, J. (1999). Color and brightness as determinants of photosensitive epilepsy. Epilepsia, 40(2), 153-156.

  • Parrish, E. E., et al. (2004). Short-wavelength light and cortical hyperexcitability: Implications for photosensitive epilepsy. Neurophysiology Journal, 21(1), 67-74.

  • Harding, G. F. A., et al. (2005). Blue-filter lenses in the treatment of photosensitive epilepsy. Epilepsia, 46(3), 347-355.

  • Strzelecka, J., Skadorwa, T., & Jóźwiak, S. (2021). The quantitative effect of blue lenses on pediatric photoparoxysmal response–An electroencephalographic cohort study. Seizure, 93, 1-7.

  • Capovilla, G., et al. (2006). Suppressive efficacy by a commercially available blue lens on PPR in 610 photosensitive epilepsy patients. Epilepsia, 47(3), 529-533.

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