Epilepsy is not contagious. Although many underlying disease mechanisms can lead to epilepsy, the cause of the disease is still unknown in about 50% of cases globally.

How does a person get epilepsy?

In general, epilepsy and seizures result from abnormal circuit activity in the brain. Any event ranging from faulty wiring during brain development, brain inflammation, physical injury or infection can lead to seizure and epilepsy. Underlying causes for epilepsy include: Brain structure abnormalities.

Can epilepsy be prevented?

Since the cause of epilepsy is often unknown, it cant be prevented, but the seizures associated with epilepsy can be. Seizures can occur for a number of reasons and often they can be prevented.

What foods should you avoid if you have epilepsy?

white bread; non-wholegrain cereals; biscuits and cakes; honey; high-sugar drinks and foods; fruit juices; chips; mashed potatoes; parsnips; dates and watermelon. In general, processed or overcooked foods and over-ripe fruits.

What age does epilepsy usually start?

They can cause a wide range of symptoms. Epilepsy can start at any age, but usually starts either in childhood or in people over 60. Its often lifelong, but can sometimes get slowly better over time.

Can epilepsy be fully cured?

Is there a cure for epilepsy? Theres no cure for epilepsy, but early treatment can make a big difference. Uncontrolled or prolonged seizures can lead to brain damage. Epilepsy also raises the risk of sudden unexplained death.

Is epilepsy a lifelong disease?

Epilepsy is usually a lifelong condition, but most people with it are able to have normal lives if their seizures are well controlled. Most children with epilepsy are able to go to a mainstream school, take part in most activities and sports, and get a job when theyre older.

Are you born with epilepsy or does it develop?

Epilepsy and seizures can develop in any person at any age. 1 in 26 people will develop epilepsy in their lifetime. Factors such as other health conditions, age, and race may make developing epilepsy and seizures more likely.

What foods should epileptics avoid?

Stimulants such as tea, coffee, chocolate, sugar, sweets, soft drinks, excess salt, spices and animal proteins may trigger seizures by suddenly changing the bodys metabolism. Some parents have reported that allergic reactions to certain foods (e.g. white flour) also seem to trigger seizures in their children.

Can epilepsy be brought on by stress?

Stress, anxiety, and other mood disorders can trigger seizures, but these are fairly common among people with epilepsy. If you are frequently stressed, talk to your physician or a mental health professional to see if you have a treatable mood disorder or to discuss ways to lower your stress levels.

Is coffee good for epilepsy?

Generally speaking, most people with epilepsy should be OK to drink coffee, tea, soda and other caffeinated drinks in small quantities without any serious risk of increasing the number of seizures they have.