My brother has been diagnosed with epilepsy yet he does not eat pork. I eat pork but I do not have epilepsy. So, does pork cause epilepsy? Linton
Dear Linton, Epilepsy is a neurological condition characterised by recurrent seizures caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. While the exact cause of epilepsy may be unknown in some cases, several factors can contribute to its development, including brain damage, genetic predisposition and infections.
One potential cause of epilepsy is consuming undercooked pork from pigs infected with the pork tapeworm (Taenia solium). When a person ingests pork containing tapeworm larvae or eggs, these parasites can travel through the bloodstream and settle in the brain. This condition, known as neurocysticercosis, leads to inflammation and damage to brain tissue, potentially triggering epileptic seizures.
In addition to Taenia solium, a pork roundworm called Trichinella spiralis can also invade the brain and cause neurological complications, including seizures. However, Trichinella spiralis infections are often self-limiting and may not require treatment unless the brain is affected.
To reduce the risk of pork-related epilepsy, always cook pork thoroughly to kill parasites and wash hands properly after handling raw pork.
Treatment for epilepsy caused by neurocysticercosis may involve anti-epileptic drugs, anti-parasitic medications, or, in severe cases, surgery to remove cysts or repair brain damage. A doctor will determine the best treatment approach based on the severity of the condition.
