Occipital lobe epilepsy is the term for recurring seizures beginning in the occipital lobe – the section of the brain located in the back of the head primarily responsible for vision.
When a seizure begins in the occipital lobe, flashing bright lights or other visual changes may be experienced off to the left side (if occurring in the right cortex), or the right side (if occurring in the left cortex).
Seizures beginning in the occipital lobe are not common.
How is occipital lobe epilepsy treated?
Anticonvulsants will typically be the first line of treatment offered for occipital lobe epilepsy. Should these fail to control the seizures, surgery may be a viable option.