Causes of seizures
Nerve cells in the brain, known as neurons, create, send and receive electrical impulses. This allows the cells to communicate. Anything that disrupts the communication pathways can lead to a seizure. Some types of seizure disorders may be caused by genetic changes. The most common cause of seizures is epilepsy. But not every person who has a seizure has epilepsy. Sometimes seizures may be caused or triggered by: A high fever. When this happens, the seizure is known as a febrile seizure. An infection of the brain. This may include meningitis or encephalitis. Severe general illness, including a severe infection of COVID-19. Lack of sleep. Low blood sodium. This can happen with medicine that makes you urinate. Certain medicines that treat pain, depression or help people stop smoking . They can make it easier for seizures to happen. A new, active brain injury, such as head trauma. It can cause bleeding in an area of the brain or a new stroke. The use of legal or illegal drugs that may be sold on the streets, such as amphetamines or cocaine. Alcohol misuse, including during times of withdrawal or extreme intoxication.