Epilepsy is usually difficult to diagnose quickly. In most cases, it cannot be confirmed until you have had more than one seizure.

It can be difficult to diagnose because many other conditions, such as migraines and panic attacks, can cause similar symptoms.

If you have had a seizure, you will be referred to a specialist in epilepsy, normally a neurologist (a doctor who specialises in conditions that affect the nervous system).

Describing your seizures

Some of the most important pieces of information needed to diagnose epilepsy are the details about your seizure or seizures.

The doctor will ask you what you can remember and any symptoms you may have had before it happened, such as feeling strange before the seizure or experiencing any warning signs. It may be useful to talk to anyone who witnessed your seizure and ask them exactly what they saw, especially if you cannot remember the seizure.

The doctor will also ask about your medical and personal history and whether you use any medicines, drugs or alcohol.

The doctor may be able to make a diagnosis of epilepsy from the information you give, but they might run further tests.

You may need an electroencephalogram (EEG), which can detect unusual brain activity associated with epilepsy. Or you may have a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, which can spot any defects in the structure of your brain.

However, even if these tests don't show anything, it is still possible that you have epilepsy.

Electroencephalogram (EEG)

An EEG test measures the electrical activity of your brain through electrodes placed on your scalp. During the test, you may be asked to breathe deeply or close your eyes, as these actions could reveal unusual brain activity associated with epilepsy.

You may also be asked to look at a flashing light, but the test will be stopped immediately if it looks like the flashing light could trigger a seizure. Read more about electroencephalograms.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan

An MRI scan can often detect possible causes of epilepsy, such as defects in the structure of your brain or the presence of a brain tumour. Read more about MRI scans.

Want to know more?

• Epilepsy Society: Diagnosis. 
• Epilepsy Action: Getting a diagnosis.