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What Are the Causes of Seizures in Teenage Women?

A seizure can have numerous causes and symptoms. It can manifest as a person simply staring into space for a few moments, or it can be a grand mal seizure consisting of violent shaking and loss of consciousness. If a person has a seizure, she should seek medical treatment right away.

  1. Epilepsy

    • The most common and well known cause of seizures is epilepsy. Epilepsy consists of episodes of abnormal brain function caused by overexcited electrical signals of the brain. The cause of epilepsy is often unknown.

    Stroke

    • The decrease in blood supply to the brain can cause a stroke, which in turn can cause seizures.

    Drug Use

    • Drug use in teenage women is common, and seizures can be a side effect. Taking or withdrawing from certain drugs such as alcohol, cocaine, amphetamines and other recreational drugs can cause seizures.

    Head Injury

    • Head trauma can result in seizures. If your teenager has experienced a head injury, be aware of the possibility of seizures. If a seizure does occur after a head injury, see a doctor immediately.

    Infection

    • Infections such as meningitis, neurosyphilis and encephalitis can affect brain function and cause seizures. If your teenager has had a serious infection, watch for seizure activity.

    Dehydration

    • Severe dehydration can cause seizures. Be sure your teenager is taking drinking enough water. If your teenager is planning on going hiking or participating in sports at school, emphasize the importance of hydration.

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