A seizure is a sudden, uncontrolled burst of electrical activity in the brain, which can cause changes in behavior, movements, feelings, and levels of consciousness
. There are many types of seizures, and they can be caused by various factors. Some common causes of seizures include:
- Epilepsy : The most common cause of seizures is epilepsy, which is a neurological condition involving the brain that makes people more susceptible to having recurrent unprovoked seizures
- High fever : A high fever can trigger a seizure, known as a febrile seizure
- Infections : Infections such as meningitis or encephalitis can cause seizures
- Severe general illness : A severe infection, like COVID-19, can lead to seizures
- Lack of sleep : Sleep deprivation can increase the risk of seizures
- Low blood sodium : This can occur due to certain medications that make you urinate
- Certain medicines : Some medications, such as those used to treat pain, depression, or help people stop smoking, can increase the risk of seizures
- Brain injury : A head injury or stroke can cause seizures
- Brain tumors : Brain tumors can cause epilepsy
- Blood vessel conditions : People with blood vessel conditions such as arteriovenous malformations and cavernous malformations can have seizures
- Hormone changes : Hormone changes during the menstrual cycle can trigger seizures in some women
- Stress : Stress can be a factor in triggering seizures
- Dehydration : Dehydration can increase the risk of seizures
- Skipped meals : Skipping meals can lead to low blood sugar levels and trigger seizures
- Illness : Certain illnesses can cause seizures
In most cases, the cause of a seizure is not known, and the condition is classified as idiopathic epilepsy
. Seizures can happen after a stroke, head injury, or infection, and some people may experience warning signs such as staring, jerking movements, body stiffening, or loss of consciousness before the seizure occurs
