Question
How can you help determine the diagnosis and appropriate tests for a child suspected of having epilepsy?
Answer
To diagnose childhood epilepsy, an EEG is necessary to detect abnormal discharge in brain neurons. If epilepsy is confirmed, a CT scan may be required to understand any brain defects. If the EEG results are normal, a CT scan is not needed as epilepsy cannot be detected by CT scans. EEGs can accurately detect epilepsy waves and carry no radiation risk. It is recommended that parents take their children to a regular hospital for examination as soon as possible and start treatment immediately upon confirmation.