Electroencephalogram / EEG Information
An electroencephalogram (EEG) is a safe and painless test that evaluates the function of your brain. If you have experienced seizures, fainting, memory loss, headaches, dizziness, stroke or head injury, your doctor may request that you have an EEG. These studies evaluate brain wave and electrical function. Physicians refer patients for evaluation of seizures, epilepsy, attention deficit disorders, headaches, dizziness, fainting, and memory disorders. All studies are performed by trained technologists and reviewed by the Center’s neurologists. Results are sent to the referring physician.
In preparation of the test you will be asked to sleep less than five hours the night before the test. You should also wash and dry your hair prior to your test.
During the EEG, you will sit in a comfortable reclining chair in a quiet room. The technologist will measure your head and scrub the areas where electrodes will be placed. The electrodes will be dipped in cool cream and placed on your scalp. The lights will be dimmed and you will be allowed to lie back in the chair. The technologist will monitor the activity of your brain as you rest with your eyes closed. During the test, a strobe light will flash for about two minutes and you will be asked to open and close your eyes. You may also be asked to breathe rapidly and deeply for a few minutes. Many people fall asleep during this relaxing procedure.
The test lasts about one hour and you will be able to resume your normal daily activities after it is completed.