How Can I Rule Out Epilepsy?

Posted on Sat, 12 Apr 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 12 Apr 2014 Answered on

Tue, 29 Apr 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I fainted and had convulsions seizures while exercising and some docs said severe dehydration others said hypoglycemia. I have usually nomal blood sugar levels .. How can i rule out epilepsy ? I am 34 yr old no previous seizures

Answered by Dr. Shehzad Topiwala (4 hours later)

Brief Answer: Epilepsy Detailed Answer: I am sorry to note what happened to you. Evaluation of seizures can be challenging. It is important to rule out reversible and treatable causes like low glucose / low calcium for example before the diagnosis of epilepsy is made. A basic round of blood tests is often useful. Such as CBC LFT RFT Electrolytes Glucose Calcium TSH Many a times it is relevant to do a CT scan of the brain to look for potential causes. Further, Neurologists perform sophisticated testing to make a diagnosis of epilepsy. One such test is called EEG (Electroencephalogram). You would be best served if you saw a Neurologist in person for a thorough assessment

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Shehzad Topiwala (2 hours later)

They did ct scan which was within normal and glucose was very low as well as electrolytes. Doctors say severe dehydration and exercise induced hypoglycemia . I dont know i am still anxious about that episode should i believe the doctors . When they put the drip and all electrolytes became normal i woke up like nothing happened and doctors said i am ok to leave .. Would epileptic faint for a long time and wake up after drip of potassium ?

Answered by Dr. Shehzad Topiwala (14 hours later)

Brief Answer: Follow up Detailed Answer: Epilepsy by definition is not caused by an electrolyte imbalance. It is a chronic condition that some people are just prone to, like migraines for example. If convulsions occur from a specific cause like low glucose or potassium then they are termed as such, and the underlying cause is targeted and treated. I am glad to note the CT scan is normal as were the glucose and calcium. I suggest you seek an opinion of a neurologist who will examine you thoroughly and review your reports comprehensively to ascertain the cause of your seizures

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar