The cause of epilepsy in a majority of people is unknown. Numerous things — such as brain injuries, tumors, as well as strokes — can cause epilepsy and/or seizures. So if someone is experiencing a seizure, they may not have epilepsy.[1][2] Mechanistically, seizures are usually caused by excessively synchronized neuronal discharges occurring in diffuse or focused areas of the brain.[3] Seizures may occur without any identifiable cause (known as unprovoked seizures) or may occur after a stimulus like flashing lights (known as reflex seizures).
What causes epilepsy?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
The cause of epilepsy is often unknown, but it can result from factors like brain injuries, tumors, and strokes. Seizures may occur without a clear cause or in response to specific stimuli, and not all seizures indicate epilepsy.