MyEpilepsyTeam

Why do seizures start later in life?

Late-onset epilepsy can develop from several causes. The most common cause in older adults is stroke, which can damage brain tissue and create conditions for seizures to develop.

Other causes of late-onset seizures include
- Traumatic brain injury
- Brain tumors
- Brain infections like Show Full Answer

Why do seizures start later in life?

Late-onset epilepsy can develop from several causes. The most common cause in older adults is stroke, which can damage brain tissue and create conditions for seizures to develop.

Other causes of late-onset seizures include:
- Traumatic brain injury
- Brain tumors
- Brain infections like meningitis
- Changes in brain cell pathways and buildup of harmful substances

Sometimes the exact reason seizures begin later in life isn't clear, even with modern testing.

Occipital lobe seizures

Focal seizures originating in the occipital lobes (which process vision) can cause specific symptoms like blinking, visual hallucinations, or complete visual whiteout or blackout. These visual symptoms are usually brief, lasting about two minutes.

The underlying causes can include brain trauma, tumors, or stroke, though often the cause remains unknown.

Finding the cause

For about half of people with epilepsy, doctors never identify a definitive underlying cause for their seizures, regardless of when they start or where they originate in the brain.

 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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Types of Focal Seizures