Incidence is also high in the elderly. Epilepsy tends to affect slightly more men than women, but it can strike anyone, at any age. In most cases, epilepsy is not genetic. Head injuries, strokes, brain tumors, infections and genetic conditions are potential causes of approximately 35 percent of all cases of epilepsy. In the remaining 65 percent, no cause can be found.
Partial seizures can evolve into generalized seizures.
Currently available medications do not control seizures adequately in 30 percent of patients. Many patients whose seizures are under control with current AED's still suffer from the side effects of the medication. Non-compliance with AED therapy is the most common cause of breakthrough seizures in people with epilepsy. Sleep deprivation, alcohol withdrawal, and stress can also increase the risk of having epileptic seizures. People who may not respond well to AED s include those whose symptoms started as neonatal seizures and those who have epilepsy associated with cerebral palsy, mental retardation, or brain damage.