Epilepsy is a chronic brain disorder that causes recurrent seizures, which are brief episodes of involuntary movements or changes in behavior caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. There are many possible causes of epilepsy, including:

• Genetics: Some types of epilepsy run in families, passed down from one generation to the next. Other types of epilepsy may be from genetic changes that you inherited and are happening for the first time.

• Brain trauma: Head trauma as a result of a car accident or other traumatic injury can cause epilepsy.

• Brain abnormalities: Brain tumors, the way blood vessels form in the brain, and abnormal structures in the brain can increase the risk of seizures.

• Infections: Infections such as meningitis, HIV, viral encephalitis, and some parasitic infections can cause epilepsy.

• Metabolic issues: Problems with enzymes responsible for processing food or making energy can lead to metabolic epilepsy.

• Autoimmune disorders: Autoimmune epilepsy is caused by a change in the bodys immune function.

• Developmental conditions: Epilepsy can sometimes occur with developmental conditions.

• Other factors: Anything that interrupts the normal connections between nerve cells in the brain can cause a seizure, including a high fever, low blood sugar, alcohol or drug withdrawal, or a brain concussion.

In many cases, the cause of epilepsy is unknown. It is important to note that epilepsy is not contagious. If you or someone you know has epilepsy, it is important to seek medical attention and follow a treatment plan to manage the condition and reduce the risk of seizures.