EEG
ROUTINE ELECTROENCEPHALOGRAM (EEG)
An EEG is the measurement of continuous brain-wave patterns, or electrical
activity of the brain. It is recorded with the placement of small metal
discs, called electrodes, in a standardized pattern on the scalp. The
resulting tracing reflects the summation of the activity of millions of
individual brain cells.
EEG helps physicians diagnose a variety of neurological problems, from
common headaches and dizziness to seizure disorders, stroke and degenerative
brain disease. EEG is also used to look for organic causes of psychiatric
symptoms and disabilities in children, and can help physicians determine
irreversible brain death.
The test is not painful. Several measurements of the head are taken and
then electrodes are then placed on the scalp with a paste-like substance.
The test typically takes about 90 minutes and the principal role of the
patient is to simply remain still, relaxed and comfortable. During the
test, the patient may be asked to take repeated deep breaths (hyperventilate)
and may be shown a strobe light to elicit certain brain wave patterns
that are useful for diagnosis. Physicians may ask you to deprive yourself
from sleep in order to observe brain waves during sleep. For these tests,
you may be asked to stay awake most of the night prior to your EEG appointment.
How should I prepare for my EEG test?
- Avoid using hair spray/gels/oils prior to your appointment and your hair
must be dry.
- Take prescribed medications unless your physician gives you other instructions.
- Bring a complete list of all medications you are currently taking.
- Eat a normal diet.
Video EEG
A Video EEG records brain activity as well as physical activity on a video
camera. Your length of stay will be determined by your physician and can
range from a six-hour outpatient test to a five-day admission to the hospital.
Electrodes are placed on the scalp with a glue-like substance. The purpose
of this test is to capture and characterize seizures or typical spells
that may be occurring. Upon reviewing this test, your physician may be
able to determine the nature of your seizures or spells and provide effective
treatment options.
How should I prepare for my Video EEG test?
- Avoid using hairspray, gels or oils prior to your admission and your hair
must be dry.
- Take prescribed medications unless your physician gives you other instructions.
- Bring a complete list of all medications you are currently taking.
- Eat a normal diet.
- Bring comfortable clothes such as button-down shirts and shorts. You may
be asked to wear a hospital gown.
- You may bring reading materials, music, laptop computers, movies or crafts.
- You will have a TV in your hospital room.
- Smoking is not permitted during testing. Your doctor may prescribe a nicotine
patch during your stay at the hospital.
Ambulatory EEG
An Ambulatory EEG records brain activity on a small recorder that is worn
around the waist. This test is also used to characterize typical spells
that patients may be having that could be elicited to a patients daily
routine. Several small electrodes are applied to the scalp with a glue-like
substance and then patients are sent home with a diary to record symptoms
during the testing. The test is typically ordered for one to three days.
How should I prepare for Ambulatory EEG test?
- Avoid using hairspray, gels or oils prior to your appointment and your
hair must be dry.
- Take prescribed medications unless your physician gives you other instructions.
- Bring a complete list of all medications you are currently taking.
- Eat a normal diet.