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Epilepsy And Driving With Lights

A MyEpilepsyTeam Member asked a question πŸ’­
Rochester, MI

For the past week when I have been driving home in the dark, I have become nauseas within 5 minutes of driving. I feel like I am going to pass out and overwhelmed with the headlights coming towards me. Does anyone else experience this?? It has been overwhelming for me lately and I am not sure if it has to due with my epilepsy. (Also, I have never had a seizure due to flashing lights.)

December 18, 2018
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A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

Hi there! I'd say it may be actually. I have noticed that my sensitivity to lights and sounds has changed over the course of my epilepsy. For example, when I was first diagnosed, I could still ride on rides at amusement parks (LOVED this actually), go to 3D movies, go to surround sound movies and none of that bothered me. However, within the last couple of years, I have had to curb rides and anything 3D or too loud due to debilitating side effects as a result of subjecting myself to these. You have to learn and know your body and then make changes as needed. I have noticed that extremely bright car lights, especially at night affect me the same way as strobe lights do and can cause me to have significant side effects and possibly even seize if I don't get myself out of the environment and trigger. So, pay attention to yourself, note it and talk with your doctor. No one knows your body better than you or can advocate better than you. So, for now, no 3D movies for me, I avoid rides that I know can trigger me- so no more teacups, 3D rides, and in Dolby surround sound movies, I now wear noise cancelling headphones. I can still hear the movie but its not nearly as debilitating for me. Hope this helps in some way!
Andrea

December 19, 2018
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

this is not a seizure issue. my mom and some of my cousins get nauseous mostly when its the back seat of the van or something like that. i think it called car sickness.

December 18, 2018
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

My husband doesn't really understand . Sonit makes it hard

December 28, 2018
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

driving has always been very hard for me -- I also only see out of one eye. I only do driving if I have to. Sometimes it poses difficulties for activities. But I do my best and I have friends who will drive for me especially at night. I cant stress more to have supports around you that care and will help you. As I get older its important to get those people in place especially. Its ok to ask for help.

December 28, 2018
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

I understand. You may need to speak to your doctor. I lost my ability to legally drive from my neurologist last week. I have petite mal seizures, and have had one while driving. I cant drive at night due to the lights causing me to have a seizure.
Please stay safe.

Merry Christmas

December 25, 2018

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