How to Test for Epilepsy

Though all seizures are caused by abnormal activity in the brain, not all seizures are related to epilepsy. In addition, one particular type of treatment for seizures is not effective for all people with epilepsy. Therefore, it is important that your doctor performs a thorough round of diagnostic tests to determine whether you have epilepsy--and, if necessary, the best course of treatment. Read on to learn more about how to test for epilepsy.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Get Tested for Epilepsy

1. Discuss getting an EEG, or electroencephalogram, test to help diagnose epilepsy. This is the only method that can directly measure abnormal brain activity that causes seizures, and therefore is the most commonly used test. An EEG test is also helpful in classifying the type of epilepsy, if your seizures are confirmed to be caused by epilepsy.
2. Prepare for your EEG test by washing your hair thoroughly the night before your appointment for the procedure. Do not use any products, such as hairspray or gel, after washing it. Electrodes are placed on your scalp during the EEG test and it is important for your head and scalp to be clean and dry.
3. Relax yourself as best as possible during the EEG test. The electrodes are temporarily glued to your scalp while you lie flat on a bed and perform certain activities to record changes in your brain activity. These activities generally include looking into a bright, flashing light or taking deep breaths at a rapid pace. In some cases, tests may include sleeping while under observation.
4. Wait for the results of your EEG test. The recordings of your brain wave patterns are examined for any abnormal activity, which is sometimes indicative of epilepsy. If the results are not conclusive, you may need to undergo more tests.
5. Be open to the use of other methods besides EEG tests to check for epilepsy, such as magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI, tests to produce images of the brain. Blood tests are also commonly used to help determine if other diseases besides epilepsy are responsible for seizures, which are sometimes related to kidney or liver disease. Blood tests record the levels of red and white blood cells, electrolytes, blood sugar and calcium.

Tips & Warnings

• Some patients with epilepsy do not respond to medication as a method of controlling seizures and must undergo alternate methods.
• Patients are sometimes monitored by video during EEG tests to observe movements of the body and any potential seizures.
• Let your doctor know about any medications you are currently taking before undergoing an EEG test, as they may interfere with the results.