Epilepsy is a neurological disorder. It affects the brain and causes people to have seizures. These seizures happen when the brain’s electrical activity becomes abnormal. It’s not just one condition. There are many types of epilepsy, and the causes can be very different.

Some people think epilepsy is rare. It’s not. Millions live with it worldwide. Others think it’s a mental illness. It isn’t. It starts in the brain, not in the mind. That’s why it’s called a brain disorder.

Medical Causes of Epilepsy

Epilepsy can begin at any age. Sometimes there’s a clear cause. Other times, there’s no known reason. These are some of the most common medical causes:

1. Brain Injury

A strong blow to the head can trigger seizures. Car accidents, falls, or sports injuries are common examples. In Delhi and other busy cities, road accidents are a major cause of post-traumatic epilepsy.

2. Stroke

A stroke happens when blood stops flowing properly to the brain. This can damage brain tissue and lead to seizures. Epilepsy in older adults is often caused by strokes.

3. Brain Infections

Infections like meningitis or encephalitis can damage brain cells. This damage can make someone develop epilepsy later. In some areas of India, infections are still a leading cause.

4. Genetic Causes

Some people inherit genes that make seizures more likely. This is called genetic epilepsy. Just because a parent has it doesn’t mean the child will. But the risk can be higher.

5. Brain Tumors

A tumor in the brain can press on areas that control movement or speech. That pressure can lead to seizures. Brain tumors don’t always cause epilepsy, but they are a known risk.

6. Developmental Disorders

Conditions like autism or cerebral palsy can be linked with epilepsy. These are often diagnosed early in life, sometimes alongside other epilepsy symptoms.

7. Idiopathic Epilepsy

Sometimes, doctors can’t find a cause. This is called idiopathic epilepsy. It’s frustrating, but not rare. Even without knowing why, people can still find effective treatment.

Myths About Epilepsy

Let’s clear up some common myths.

Myth: Epilepsy means you’re mentally ill.

False. It’s a neurological disorder, not a psychiatric one.

Myth: All seizures look the same.

They don’t. Some people fall. Others just stare or become confused. There are many types of seizures.

Myth: You can swallow your tongue during a seizure.

Not true. It’s not physically possible.

Myth: Only children have epilepsy.

Wrong. Epilepsy can start in childhood, adulthood, or old age.

Epilepsy Treatment in Delhi

If you live in Delhi and have frequent seizures, talk to a doctor. Many hospitals now offer advanced epilepsy treatment in Delhi. Tests like EEG, MRI, and sleep studies can help. A neurologist in Delhi can figure out the type of epilepsy and start the right medication. If you're searching for the best epilepsy doctor in Delhi, look for someone experienced with both seizures and sleep-related disorders.

Final Thoughts

Epilepsy has many causes—head injuries, strokes, tumors, genetics, infections, or unknown reasons. Understanding these helps in finding the right care. The brain is complex, but treatment is possible. If you or someone you know has seizures, don’t wait. Get help early.