In some 6 out of 10 cases, epilepsy is idiopathic — meaning the cause is unknown. In other cases, epilepsy can be traced to an abnormality of the structure or function of the brain.

These abnormalities can arise from traumatic brain injuries, strokes and other vascular problems, infections of the nervous system (meningitis or encephalitis), congenital malformations, brain tumors or metabolic abnormalities.

Seizures can literally begin at any time for any number of reasons.

Here are just a few of them.

Which pertain to you?

Age.The onset of epilepsy is most common in children and older adults, but the condition can occur at any age.

Prenatal injury.Before birth, babies are sensitive to brain damage that could be caused by several factors, such as an infection in the mother, poor nutrition or oxygen deficiencies. This brain damage can result in epilepsy or cerebral palsy.

Genetic influence.Some types of…