Seizures indicate abnormal activity in the brain. It is often difficult to determine the cause of seizure activity. When no known cause is determined, the patient is given the diagnosis of epilepsy according to the type of seizure the patient is experiencing.

Newborns

The most common causes of seizures in a newborn are lack of oxygen during the birth process, malformation of the brain, low blood sugar or electrolytes, infection, drug use of the mother while pregnant and brain hemorrhage.

Children

Children can experience seizures as a result of a fever. These types of seizures are known as febrile seizures. Another common cause of seizures in children is infection. Brain tumors or malformations can cause seizures as well, but occur rarely.

Adults

Congenital conditions, genetic factors, brain malformations or disease and trauma to the head are all causes of seizures in adults. The elderly can experience seizure activity due to Alzheimer's disease, trauma to the head or a stroke.

Diagnostic Testing

Diagnostic testing such as an MRI, or an EEG may be performed by a physician in order to determine the cause of seizures. Correct diagnosis of the type of seizure the patient is experiencing will help ensure the proper treatment plan.

Considerations

According to the Epilepsy Foundation, no known cause of seizure activity is found in about seven out of 10 epilepsy patients. Early childhood and adolescence are times when seizures may appear. Older people over 65 years of age, also have a greater risk of seizures.

Source:

Causes Of Seizures

Seizure Disorders