Experts Link Rise in Adult-Onset Epilepsy to Brain Changes
A growing number of adults are developing seizures later in life, with experts pointing to specific changes in brain tissue as a potential cause.
A concerning increase in adults developing epilepsy later in life has experts investigating the underlying causes, with recent theories focusing on changes within brain tissue. This phenomenon, often referred to as adult-onset epilepsy, affects individuals who previously had no history of seizures.
Claire Barnard's experience exemplifies this trend. More than six years ago, she experienced a severe seizure that left her disoriented and frightened in a hospital bed, an event that continues to haunt her. For Barnard, the diagnosis of epilepsy was unexpected, especially as she had no family history of the condition and had never anticipated developing it in middle age.
Epilepsy specialist Professor Tony Marson suggests that the brain changes associated with this condition may also impact cognitive functions. "The changes in the brain that make it susceptible to seizures also cause memory difficulties, especially when involving a temporal lobe," Marson stated.
The exact mechanisms driving these brain changes and their link to late-onset epilepsy are still areas of active research. However, the growing prevalence of such cases suggests a need for increased awareness and further investigation into preventative strategies and treatment options for adults experiencing new-onset seizures.