Epilepsy and Genetics: Can Parents Pass It on to Children? Experts Explain

Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological conditions in the world, yet myths and misconceptions continue to surround it. In many societies, seizures are still wrongly linked to superstition or black magic, leading families to delay medical treatment. However, experts emphasize that epilepsy is a brain-related disorder caused by sudden abnormal electrical activity in the brain, which results in seizures.

While lifestyle and environmental factors can play a role, many people wonder whether epilepsy is hereditary. Does the condition pass from parents to children? Health specialists say the answer is not as straightforward as most people think.

Is Epilepsy Genetic?

According to neurosurgeon Dr. Daljit Singh, having epilepsy in the family slightly increases the chances of the next generation developing it, but it does not guarantee that a child will inherit the disease.

• If one parent has epilepsy, the child’s risk of developing it rises to about 5% to 10%.

• If both parents have epilepsy, the chances are higher.

• In comparison, children born into families with no history of epilepsy face only about 1% risk, sometimes even lower.

This means that while genetics can play a role, epilepsy is not always passed directly from parent to child. Most children of parents with epilepsy never develop the condition.

How Serious Can Epilepsy Be?

Epilepsy is a condition that requires long-term treatment and medical supervision. Unfortunately, some patients stop taking medicines midway, which can worsen the problem and trigger frequent or severe seizures.

Common symptoms of epilepsy include:

• Sudden fainting or loss of consciousness.

• Memory lapses or confusion.

• Repeated, unexplained seizures.

Doctors advise that anyone experiencing such symptoms should seek medical help immediately, as timely treatment helps control seizures and improve quality of life.

Other Causes of Epilepsy Beyond Genetics

Genetic history is not the only factor responsible for epilepsy. Several medical and environmental conditions can also trigger the disease, such as:

• Brain injuries during birth.

• Infections like meningitis or encephalitis.

• Brain tumors that interfere with normal activity.

• Stroke or severe head trauma.

• Abnormal development of brain nerves.

In many patients, epilepsy develops even without a clear family history. That is why regular monitoring, especially in high-risk families, is strongly recommended.

Managing the Risk for Children

For families where epilepsy runs in the bloodline, genetic counseling and medical consultation play an important role. Experts suggest:

• Getting a child screened if there is a family history of epilepsy.

• Monitoring any unusual behavior such as frequent fainting or unprovoked seizures.

• Seeking advice from a neurologist or genetic counselor to understand individual risk.

• Ensuring that treatment, once started, is not discontinued without medical supervision.

Dr. Singh emphasizes that with timely diagnosis, proper treatment, and lifestyle adjustments, patients with epilepsy can live healthy and fulfilling lives.