New Research Sheds Light on Root Causes of Epilepsy
Source: USA TODAY
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Medically reviewed by Diana Apetauerova, MD, Updated on August 27, 2025
Epilepsy is a neurological condition caused by electrical disturbances in the brain. The condition results in seizures, which can cause unusual behavior, movements, or experiences, and sometimes a lack of awareness or loss of consciousness. Treatment options include anti-seizure medications and, in some cases, surgery.
Some forms of epilepsy run in families and are linked to inherited gene changes.
Serious accidents or trauma to the brain can trigger seizures.
Lack of blood supply to the brain or brain injury can cause epilepsy, especially in older adults.
Brain infections like meningitis, encephalitis, or neurocysticercosis can lead to seizures.
Conditions such as autism or neurodevelopmental abnormalities may increase epilepsy risk.
🌍 Understanding the Real Reasons Behind Epilepsy
🌍 Understanding the Real Reasons Behind Epilepsy
Epilepsy is one of the oldest known brain conditions, yet it is still misunderstood by many. For centuries, people tried to explain seizures through myths and fear. Today, science gives us a clearer and more truthful picture: epilepsy has real, biological causes.
Some people are born with genes that make their brain cells more likely to send abnormal signals. This doesn’t always mean epilepsy is guaranteed, but it does mean genetics can play a powerful role.
A strong head injury—from accidents, falls, or sports—can leave behind microscopic scars in the brain. These scars can disrupt the normal flow of electrical signals, creating seizure activity even years later.
Stroke is one of the leading causes of epilepsy in adults over 60. When the brain loses oxygen and cells are damaged, seizures can appear as a lasting effect.
Serious infections like meningitis, encephalitis, or parasitic diseases can leave a permanent mark on the brain. This damage can trigger seizures, even after the infection is gone.
Some children are born with differences in brain development. Conditions like autism or certain birth complications can increase the risk of epilepsy from an early age.
The Deeper Truth
The Deeper Truth
Epilepsy is not a punishment, a curse, or a weakness—it is a medical condition rooted in the way the brain works. Understanding the real causes brings us closer to compassion, awareness, and better treatment.
The more we talk about epilepsy, the more we replace fear with knowledge and stigma with support.
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