What are the Possible Causes of Seizures?
February 19, 2024 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Seizures can occur due to various underlying causes, and the triggers may differ from person to person. Here are some possible causes of seizures:
- Epilepsy:
- Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent and unprovoked seizures. It can have a genetic component or be acquired later in life.
- Fevers (Febrile Seizures):
- Young children, especially between the ages of 6 months and 5 years, may experience seizures associated with a sudden spike in body temperature, often due to infections.
- Head Injuries:
- Traumatic brain injuries resulting from accidents or falls can lead to seizures, either immediately after the injury or later as a result of scarring or damage to the brain tissue.
- Brain Tumors:
- Tumors in the brain can irritate surrounding tissues and trigger seizures.
- Stroke:
- A stroke, which involves disruption of blood flow to the brain, can cause brain damage and increase the risk of seizures.
- Brain Infections:
- Infections such as meningitis, encephalitis, or brain abscesses can lead to seizures.
- Metabolic Disorders:
- Disorders affecting metabolism, such as hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), electrolyte imbalances, or liver and kidney failure, can trigger seizures.
- Alcohol and Substance Withdrawal:
- Abruptly stopping the use of alcohol, certain drugs, or medications can induce seizures during the withdrawal period.
- Toxic Exposure:
- Exposure to certain toxins, poisons, or overdose of medications can lead to seizures.
- Congenital Conditions:
- Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to seizures due to congenital conditions affecting brain development.
- Vascular Abnormalities:
- Abnormalities in blood vessels, such as arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), can disrupt blood flow and cause seizures.
- Neurodegenerative Diseases:
- Conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, or Huntington’s disease may be associated with an increased risk of seizures.
- Autoimmune Disorders:
- Certain autoimmune disorders affecting the brain, such as autoimmune encephalitis, can lead to seizures.
- Sleep Deprivation:
- Lack of sleep or irregular sleep patterns may lower the seizure threshold and trigger seizures in some individuals with epilepsy.
- Hormonal Changes:
- Hormonal fluctuations, such as those occurring during menstruation or pregnancy, can influence seizure activity in some women with epilepsy.
It’s important to note that a single seizure may not necessarily indicate epilepsy, as seizures can occur for various reasons. However, recurrent seizures typically prompt further investigation to determine the underlying cause. Anyone experiencing a seizure should seek medical attention for a thorough evaluation and diagnosis.