Is generalized epilepsy hereditary?

Complicated: we are learning more and more each day about inherited epileptic syndromes. Conditions that lower the seizure threshold run in families. There are many different types of seizures and seizure syndromes. I cannot do service to this topic of discussion with the 400 character limit imposed. There are, in fact books written on this topic.

It can be: Epilepsy definitely has a hereditary component. If you have a family member with it, you are at increased risk compared to someone without a family history. That being said, having a family history does not guarantee you will have epilepsy. Hope this helps!

Some: there are many varieties of generalized seizrues. Some like Petit mal and febrile seizures have a high rate of familial occurrence. Others do not. The EEG pattern helps define the type of seizure which can clarify the issue.