Published on: 7/9/2025
Can seizures occur without a diagnosis of epilepsy?
Yes, seizures can happen without having epilepsy. A single seizure doesn’t always mean someone has epilepsy.
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Explanation
Seizures are caused by abnormal brain activity, but having one seizure doesn’t always mean you have epilepsy, which is diagnosed when a person has two or more unprovoked seizures. Other reasons for seizures include:
Febrile seizures: Seizures triggered by fever, common in young children. Head injuries: Trauma can cause a one-time seizure. Infections: Brain infections like meningitis or encephalitis may provoke seizures. Metabolic imbalances: Low blood sugar or electrolyte disturbances can cause seizures. Drug or alcohol use: Intoxication or withdrawal can lead to seizures. Stroke or brain tumor: These can cause seizures without epilepsy. Medication side effects: Some drugs may increase seizure risk.
If you have a seizure, doctors will evaluate the cause and decide if epilepsy is likely or if the seizure was a one-time event.
(References)
- Krumholz A. (1999). Nonepileptic seizures: diagnosis and management. Neurology, 10496237.
- Rawlings GH, Novakova B, Beail N, & Reuber M. (2021). What do we know about non-epileptic seizures in adults .... Seizure, 34332255.
- Hingray C, Biberon J, El-Hage W, & de Toffol B. (2016). Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES). Revue neurologique, 27117433.
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