Diagnosing epilepsy

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.  
Young boy having EEG

Find out about diagnosing epilepsy

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.

Find out about diagnosing epilepsy

Why you need an epilepsy diagnosis

Learn why getting an epilepsy diagnosis is vital for children and young people, and how it helps guide treatment, safety, and support planning.

Find out about diagnosing epilepsy

Tests used in diagnosing epilepsy

Explore the tests used to diagnose epilepsy in children and young people, including EEGs, brain scans, and what to expect during the process.

Find out about diagnosing epilepsy

Neuroimaging (brain scans)

Find out how brain scans like MRI and CT help diagnose epilepsy in children and young people, and what to expect during neuroimaging tests.

Find out about diagnosing epilepsy

Electroencephalogram (EEG)

Discover how EEGs help diagnose epilepsy in children and young people. Learn what to expect and how this painless test records brain activity.

More information about epilepsy

More information about epilepsy

Causes of epilepsy

Learn about the causes of epilepsy, including genetic, metabolic, unknown origins, and epilepsy in infants, from Young Epilepsy.

More information about epilepsy

Epilepsy syndromes

Learn about common childhood and rare infancy epilepsy syndromes in this informative guide from Young Epilepsy.

More information about epilepsy

Epileptic seizures

Understand epileptic seizures, their types, causes, and management. Find resources and support for living with epilepsy.

More information about epilepsy

Treatments for epilepsy

Explore various epilepsy treatments, including medication, surgery, and dietary options. Find resources and support for managing epilepsy effectively.

More information about epilepsy

Common co-occurring conditions

Explore common co-occurring conditions like autism, ADHD and dyspraxia in children with epilepsy, and how to recognise and support them early.

Last reviewed: March 2025

Next review due: May 2028