EEG

What is an EEG?

EEG is short for - Electroencephalogram.

Electro (electrical), encephalo (brain) and gram (graph). An Electroencephalogram is a graphic record of brain wave activity. It provides important diagnostic data about abnormal electrical activity of the brain. It is a non-invasive procedure which is useful in the evaluation of epilepsy, head trauma, headaches, brain tumor, cerebral vascular accident (stroke), metabolic and infectious diseases. The EEG is also helpful in the diagnosis of sleep disorders, cerebral death, congenital and developmental disorders and organic causes of psychiatric problems. The EEG test is different from other tests because it shows brain function rather than structural anatomy.

How does it work?

With the patient seated or lying down, the scalp is measured and marked to determine specific points of electrode application. These points are then cleansed with a Prep Gel. The electrodes are covered with an Electrolyte Conductive paste and attached to the marked areas of the scalp. These are connected to a computerized machine that records the electrical potentials of the brain.

The recording may be done during awake or asleep. During the procedure, the patient may be asked to open and close the eyes and to breathe in and out deeply. A flashing light may also be used as part of the procedure.

Your EEG report will be interpreted by the Neurologist/Electroencephalographer and a typewritten report and specimen pages will be prepared in approximately 1 week.

The EEG test causes NO pain, NO side effects and NO electrical shocks

The EEG Test

Appointment: Please contact our office to schedule your appointment. If you are unable to keep your appointment, please inform us at least the day before your test.

Before Your Test Begins: You would be asked some routine questions. You would need to remove any: hair accessories, eye glasses, earrings and to switch off your mobile phone.

During Your Test: You are required to refrain from talking and moving unless otherwise requested. Failure to do so may result in inconvenience and inaccurate recording.

Preparation

Your hair MUST be shampooed and dried the day or night before.

DO NOT apply any oils, hair spray etc to your hair.

REMOVE any braids, weaves, extensions or tangles the day or night before.

Infants and Children

If you know your child may not stay still during the test, he or she may need sedation. Please consult your child's pediatrician or referring doctor regarding this or contact us.

If possible, try to ensure your child does not nap before the test.

To facilitate your child's comfort and operation, we suggest you bring any of the following items: favorite soft toy, blanket, pillow, feeding bottle or pacifier.

EEG