Seizure diagnosis
Typically, epilepsy is identified when several seizures occur within a specific time frame. Epilepsy is thought to be a spectrum disorder, and sufferers can have anything from a single episode infrequently to hundreds every dayTrusted Source. Some forms of seizures may occur more frequently as a result of stress and exhaustion.
Physical examinations, medical histories, and imaging tests are used to identify seizures. Your doctor will inquire into:
- family seizures history
- past seizures
- prescription drugs you are taking
- alcohol or drug usage
- head injuries
- stroke[1]
- history metabolic conditions such as diabetes or renal disease fevers
- recent perplexity or behavior change
- sleep patterns
To find out more about your seizure activity, your doctor may prescribe one or more of the following tests after collecting your medical history and performing a physical examination:
- blood tests
- a spinal tap to rule out infection
- electroencephalogram (EEG)[2] to assess brain waves
- toxicology testing
- a CT scan[3] or MRI [4] to rule out brain tumors or other physical anomalies