Causes of Convulsions

Convulsions, also commonly known as seizures, are a medical condition characterized by rapid and uncontrollable shaking of the patients body, which is caused due to the repeated contraction and relaxation of the muscles of the body. Convulsions most commonly occur due to disorganization in the brain, which results in the generation of electrical signals that, in turn, cause convulsions. The continuous recurrence of convulsions over a long period of time is termed as "epilepsy." Various factors and causes lead to convulsions, which, if left unnoticed and untreated, may lead to epilepsy.

Genetic and Hereditary Factors

• Hereditary plays a significant role in the transmission of convulsions from one generation to another. Research conducted by the Mayo clinic staff infers that certain genes, such as KCNQ2 and KCNQ3, also play a vital role in the development of convulsions in individuals. These genes activate the cells of the brain and, in some cases, may cause electrical discharge. These genes make the body of an individual more susceptible toward various environmental changes that, in turn, trigger convulsions or seizures.

Head Trauma/Injury

• Head trauma or head injury are also considered to be major factors that lead to the development of convulsions. Such injuries generally damage the cells of the brain, thus leading to the abnormal functioning of the cells, hence, increasing the probability of developing convulsions.

Medical Disorders

• Various medical disorders and conditions---such as heart attacks or strokes, kidney failure, extremely high fever and meningitis---are considered to be prime factors that cause convulsions in individuals. Most of the above-mentioned medical conditions or disorders adversely affect the brain and thus damage it, increasing the probability of developing conditions such as convulsions. According to the Mayo clinic staff, heart strokes and heart attacks account for about 50 percent of all convulsion cases in patients over 65 years.

Age

• Age of an individual also plays a crucial role in the development of convulsions, as convulsions most commonly occur individuals after about 60 years. With progressing age, the cells of brain start to degenerate naturally due to various exposures to pollutants and various other factors, leading to convulsions due to the abnormal functioning of the brain.

Other Common Factors

• Prenatal disorders, gender of the individual and abuse of drugs such as cocaine and angel dust are often considered causes that subsequently lead to the development of convulsions.