Causes of epilepsy are variable and may be idiopathic, symptomatic or cryptogenic. Idiopathic epilepsy often starts in childhood or adolescence and is largely due to genetic causes. Symptomatic epilepsy may be due to brain damage or anomaly from any cause, for example infection, tumours, brain damage or specific syndromes such as Sturge-Weber Syndrome , Tuberous Sclerosis or some metabolic disorders. Inheritance patterns People with idiopathic epilepsy may inherit a low seizure threshold. In cases of symptomatic epilepsy the inheritance pattern will depend upon the underlying cause of the condition.
Genetic advice is available.
This is rarely available unless the cause is metabolic. The Society is a National Registered Charity No. 206186 established in 1892. The Association is a National Registered Charity No. 234343 founded in 1950. EAS works to enable people with epilepsy in Scotland to maximise their choices in life.