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EEG and Epilepsy Testing
If you have experienced a seizure-like spell, you may worry it’s epilepsy, but that’s not always the case. Diagnostic testing from Virginia Mason Franciscan Health detects the source of your symptoms. We accurately confirm or rule out epilepsy using electroencephalograms (EEGs) and other tests.
EEG and epilepsy testing at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health: Why choose us?
Our specialists see and diagnose new patients promptly. We offer EEGs and other epilepsy assessments in multiple sites, making it easier to receive services near home.
EEG overview
An electroencephalogram assesses electrical activity in the brain. The test shows unusual activity that helps identify your risk of epilepsy.
Our epilepsy testing services
Our services are for any adult who has experienced a seizure-like spell. Even if it only happened once or no one witnessed it, if you are concerned, come see us. If we confirm an epilepsy diagnosis, you start treatment immediately, protecting you against complications.
Our epilepsy testing services include:
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We offer comprehensive outpatient testing services, including:
- Routine EEG: This short, on-site assessment of electrical activity typically lasts less than an hour.
- Prolonged EEG: This longer on-site assessment may take up to eight hours.
- Home EEG: We capture information for up to four days using a portable EEG device.
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Inpatient EEGs are for patients who have been hospitalized for another condition and have signs of a seizure. We use a portable EEG to perform bedside testing. Neurologists and neuro-hospitalists (hospital-based neurology providers) are available 24/7 to interpret the results.
Additional types of epilepsy evaluations
Epilepsy evaluations at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health may also include:
- Medical history: Reviewing your medical history helps us learn more about injuries, illnesses or treatments that increase your risk of seizures.
- Neurological exam: We test your brain function, including reflexes, coordination and senses.
- Gathering your account: It’s important to understand what happened during the seizure and observations from people who witnessed it.
- Imaging studies: A brain MRI or CT scan assesses brain structures.
- Blood tests: Blood tests help us rule out other possible causes of seizure-like symptoms.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): An ECG checks for an arrhythmia or other issues with the heart’s electrical system.
Find a specialist
Our specialists care for patients across the Puget Sound area and beyond. Find a neurologist near you.