Tonic-Clonic (Grand Mal) Seizure

Your healthcare provider, usually a neurologist, can often diagnose a tonic-clonic seizure based on the symptoms. Because you pass out during a tonic-clonic seizure, you might only recall how you felt before and after the seizure. In those cases, your healthcare provider may ask someone who was with you to describe what happened.

If you see someone having a seizure, especially one involving a lot of muscle tension, convulsions or shaking and thrashing, a healthcare provider might ask you to describe what you saw. What you describe to them can be very helpful and make the diagnosing process much easier.

What tests will be done to diagnose tonic-clonic seizures?

Several possible tests can help diagnose (or rule out) tonic-clonic seizures. Some of the most likely tests include:

• Electroencephalogram (EEG).
• Blood tests (these look for metabolic and blood chemistry imbalances, immune system problems, toxins and poisons and more).
• Computerized tomography (CT) scan.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
• Spinal tap (lumbar puncture).

While diagnosing epilepsy, healthcare providers will look for a focal point, a part of your brain where your seizures usually or always start. Finding a focal point can make a big difference in the treatments you receive.

Injuries are common with tonic-clonic seizures, either from passing out, clenching your jaw or if you collide with any nearby objects during the seizure. If healthcare providers suspect other injuries or complications from these seizures, they might want to run tests other than those listed above. Your healthcare provider is the best person to tell you (or someone who can make medical decisions for you) what kind of tests they recommend for your particular case and why.