What is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy, a condition characterized by repeated seizures,, typically first appears in childhood, according to the Epilepsy Foundation. Seizures occur when electrical impulses in the brain behave abnormally, overwhelming the brain with electrical activity. A seizure can cause convulsions, jerking and leave a child unconscious.
Potential Causes
In the majority of epilepsy cases--as many as 7 out of 10--the Epilepsy Foundation says the cause is unknown. Possible theories as to why some children develop epilepsy include: insufficient oxygen at birth or a brain that did not fully develop before the child was born. An injury to the brain or an infection that strikes the brain--such as encephalitis or meningitis--also may play a role in childhood epilepsy. Tumors and abnormalities in the brain are other possible causes. Some children also may develop epilepsy after having a severe seizure accompanied by a fever.
Possible Genetic Causes
Epilepsy tends to run in families, according to the Epilepsy Foundation. Although exactly what genetic mutations or components cause epilepsy aren't understood, it is more common among people who have family members with the condition--particularly immediate family members.
