Diagnosing epilepsy

In this section you can find out about:

How epilepsy is diagnosed
Why you need an epilepsy diagnosis
What tests are used in diagnosing epilepsy
Neuroimaging (brain scans)
Electroencephalograms (EEGs)

Key points

If you have a seizure, it’s important to see a doctor.
Having a seizure doesn’t always mean that you have epilepsy.
Getting an epilepsy diagnosis isn’t always easy and it may take some time.
There is no single test for diagnosing epilepsy. You will probably need to have a few medical tests and go through your medical history.
Epilepsy and seizures are complex, and it can be hard for doctors to work out what has caused your symptoms.
You should be offered information and support about seizures.

Last updated December 2023.

We’re currently reviewing this information. The next update will be 2025. If you would like to find out more about how we produce our information, or the sources of evidence we use, please contact us at healthinfo@youngepilepsy.org.uk

Find out about diagnosing epilepsy

How is epilepsy diagnosed

Get information on referral and assessment for diagnosis after a first suspected epileptic seizure with Young Epilepsy.

Helping with a child’s assessment for epilepsy

Discover how to support a child’s assessment for epilepsy diagnosis after a suspected seizure, with helpful guidance and tips for parents and caregivers.

Electroencephalogram (EEG) and other tests

Learn about EEG testing and other diagnostic tools, like OPM-MEG and video telemetry, used to identify brain activity patterns for epilepsy diagnosis.