Causes of epilepsy

Genetic causes

We are discovering more and more about the role genes play in epilepsy. There are certain types of epilepsy that are known to have a genetic cause. These include Benign Rolandic Epilepsy, Temporal Lobe Epilepsy and Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy. Other inherited conditions are known to cause epilepsy (e.g. Tuberous Sclerosis).

It is impossible to accurately say whether or not a child of someone with epilepsy will inherit the condition. This is because there are so many types of epilepsy and different factors as to whether a child might inherit it.

Some people just have a low seizure threshold and this means that they are less able to cope with the burst of electrical activity, making them more vulnerable to stresses on the brain. This is thought to have a genetic basis.

One of our research projects is currently looking into the link between genes and epilepsy.

If you are concerned about the possibility of your child inheriting epilepsy, you should raise this question with your doctor. They will know what type of epilepsy you have and whether it is a type that will tend to run in families.

They can also refer you to a genetic counsellor and they will be able to give you much more precise information.

Structural or metabolic causes

Epilepsy may be caused if brain cells are damaged or the delicate balance of chemicals needed to produce electrical discharges are disturbed. Some of these causes are:

• Damage to brain during development or birth
• Bleeding in the brain
• Infections in the brain
• Head injury
• Growths or tumours in the brain
• Stroke
• Metabolic conditions such as hypoglycaemia
• An underlying brain condition
• Drugs and alcohol