What Causes Epilepsy?
These answers to questions about epilepsy can help shed some light on the condition.
Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological conditions, yet it’s often misunderstood. It affects people of all ages, backgrounds and lifestyles, and while many people only know it as a disorder that causes seizures, it can affect more than just health. Epilepsy can also affect quality of life, by impacting driving, work, school and relationships. But the good news is that while it can be challenging, it’s also a condition that can often be managed with the right care.
If you or someone you love has epilepsy, it’s natural to have a lot of questions. What exactly is happening in the brain during a seizure? Why do some people develop epilepsy while others don’t? And perhaps the biggest question—can it be cured? Here are answers to some of these common questions.
What is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a brain disorder that makes a person prone to having repeated seizures. “A seizure happens when there’s a sudden surge of electrical activity in the brain. Depending on where in the brain this activity occurs, seizures can look very different,” says Jeffrey Mora MD, a neurologist at PIH Health Santa Fe Springs office. “Some people may experience full-body convulsions, while others might briefly stare into space, lose awareness, or have jerking movements in part of the body,” continues Dr. Mora.
Having a single seizure doesn’t mean someone has epilepsy. Doctors usually diagnose epilepsy when a person has had at least two unprovoked seizures or has a high risk of having more.
What Causes Epilepsy?
The causes of epilepsy can be complex. In some people, doctors can identify the exact reason. In others, the cause may never be clear. Here are some of the main factors linked to epilepsy:
- Genetics: Some types of epilepsy run in families. Certain gene changes can affect how brain cells communicate, making seizures more likely.
- Brain injury: A serious head injury, such as from a car accident or fall, can lead to epilepsy.
- Stroke: In adults over 35, stroke is a leading cause. Damage from a stroke can create abnormal brain activity.
- Infections: Brain infections like meningitis, encephalitis, or neurocysticercosis can trigger epilepsy.
- Developmental conditions: Disorders such as autism or neurodevelopmental delays may increase risk.
- Other brain problems: Tumors, scar tissue, or abnormal blood vessels in the brain can also be responsible.
Sometimes, though, no clear cause for epilepsy is found. This is called idiopathic epilepsy, which means it arises without an identifiable reason.
Is Epilepsy Curable?
One of the biggest questions people have is whether epilepsy can be cured. According to Dr. Mora, “Right now, there is no cure for epilepsy. However, the condition can often be well controlled and about two-thirds of people with epilepsy can become seizure-free with medication.”
Anti-seizure medicines are usually the first line of treatment. For those who don’t respond to medicine, other options exist, such as surgery to remove the part of the brain causing seizures, nerve stimulation devices or special diets like the ketogenic diet. Even if epilepsy isn’t fully curable, many people live full, active lives when their seizures are well managed.
If you ever have questions or concerns about epilepsy, whether it’s recognizing symptoms, managing seizures, or understanding treatment options, it’s important to consult your doctor. Every person’s experience with epilepsy is unique, and only a qualified healthcare professional can provide guidance tailored to your individual needs. Open communication with your doctor helps ensure you receive the right diagnosis, care, and support. To find a PIH Health doctor nearest you, visit PIHHealth.org/Find-A-Doctor
