MyEpilepsyTeam

Can your grandson inherit epilepsy from you?

The short answer is that the risk is pretty low. Most children born to parents or grandparents with epilepsy don't develop seizures.

If neither parent has epilepsy but a grandparent does, the child's risk isn't higher than average. There's no scientific evidence for epilepsy Show Full Answer

Can your grandson inherit epilepsy from you?

The short answer is that the risk is pretty low. Most children born to parents or grandparents with epilepsy don't develop seizures.

If neither parent has epilepsy but a grandparent does, the child's risk isn't higher than average. There's no scientific evidence for epilepsy "skipping a generation."

However, if one of your grandson's parents has epilepsy, the risk increases slightly. A child whose parent has epilepsy is between two and 10 times more likely to develop it than the general population, depending on which parent has it and what type of epilepsy they have.

The risk factors include:
- Whether the mother or father has epilepsy (maternal epilepsy carries slightly higher risk)
- The type of epilepsy (generalized epilepsy has a stronger genetic link than focal epilepsy)
- Specific family history of epilepsy syndromes

Around 30-40% of epilepsy cases have a genetic component, but not all genetic epilepsy is inherited. Sometimes spontaneous gene mutations cause it.

If you're concerned, genetic counseling can help your family understand the risks and make informed decisions. A genetic counselor can discuss possible risk factors and testing options.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

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