How is Epilepsy diagnosed?
The diagnosis and evaluation of Epilepsy requires the physician to know all about the seizures – when they started, the patient’s appearance before, during, and after a seizure, and any unusual behavioural occurrences. A background of the family’s health history is also useful. In addition, an electroencephalogram (EEG) may help detect areas of increased nerve cell activity.
The doctor’s main tool in diagnosing epilepsy is a careful medical history with as much information as possible about what the seizures looked like and what happened just before they began. A second major tool is an electroencephalograph (EEG). This is a machine that records brain waves picked up by tiny wires taped to the head. Electrical signals from brain cells are recorded as wavy lines by the machine. Brain waves during or between seizures may show special patterns which help the doctor decide whether or not someone has epilepsy. Imaging methods such as CT (computerized tomography) or MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scans may be used to search for any growths, scars, or other physical conditions in the brain that may be causing the seizures. In a few research centers, positron emission tomography (PET) imaging is used to identify areas of the brain which are producing seizures.
The diagnosis and evaluation of Epilepsy requires the physician to know all about the seizures – when they started, the patient’s appearance before, during, and after a seizure, and any unusual behavioural occurrences. A background of the family’s health history is also useful. In addition, an electroencephalogram (EEG) may help detect areas of increased nerve cell activity. • What types of doctors can diagnose and treat Epilepsy? Any licensed physician is qualified to treat Epilepsy. There are doctors who specialize in neurological disorders, and these neurologists can be found practicing in many hospitals and private practices. Epileptologists may work in an Epilepsy clinic, as well as in private practices. Usually a referral is required from another physician in order to see a Neurologists and Epileptologists. Some people also consult alternative health practitioners who specialize in holistic healing, acupuncture, or chiropractic treatments. Often, the first doctor to diagnose Epil
A neurologist often performs the diagnosis and evaluation of epilepsy. An electroencephalogram (EEG) may be used to supplement information provided about the specifics of potential seizure activity. The information needed may include when the seizure started, the student’s appearance before, during, and after the seizure, and any unusual observations including changes in behavior. As an educator, it is important to keep track of seizure events that occur in your class so that you can share information with the parents of the affected student.
The doctor’s main tool in diagnosing epilepsy is a detailed medical history, including as much information as possible about what the seizure looked like and what happened just before it began and after it was over. A second major tool is an electroencephalogram (EEG). This laboratory test is done with a machine that records brain waves picked up by tiny wires taped to the head. Electrical signals from brain cells are recorded as wavy lines by the machine. Brain waves during or between seizures may show special patterns that help the doctor decide whether someone has epilepsy. Imaging (picture-taking) methods such as computerized tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans may be used to search for growths, scars or other physical conditions in the brain that may be causing the seizures. In a few research centers like Children’s Hospital, positron emission tomography (PET) imaging is used to identify areas of the brain that are producing seizures, especially in those pati
