What is an electroencephalogram (EEG)?
Video electroencephalogram (EEG) is a painless and non-invasive test that is performed on people of all ages. The test is performed under video monitoring, which provides additional information to the doctor. The main purpose of a video EEG is to record the electrical activity of the brain. It is the gold standard in diagnosing epilepsy. Some conditions can affect brain function and change its electrical activity.
Why and when is an EEG needed?
Your doctor will recommend an EEG when they want to assess the electrical activity of the brain or to understand (verify) a known condition:
- Seizures, epilepsy;
- Brain trauma;
- Sleep disorders;
- Memory problems;
- Brain damage;
- A mass in the brain that affects its electrical activity.
How should a patient prepare for an EEG?
- The night before, the patient should wash their head only with shampoo, do not use hair conditioner, cream, gel;
- They should not drink caffeine-containing drinks 8-12 hours before the study;
- They should inform the doctor about the medications they are taking, a temporary change in current treatment may be necessary;
- Sleep deprivation may be necessary the night before the study (the patient should go to bed late at night and wake up early in the morning, during this period the patient should not drink coffee and energy drinks).
What happens during the EEG?
- The EEG is performed in the clinic, in a room designated for you, in the ward, or at home;
- Using a special cap, after skin preparation, the sensors are attached to the scalp using gel and paste;
- The appropriate device records the electrical waves, which are displayed on the screen;
- After the sensors are attached to the designated place, the patient lies on the bed or leans on a chair;
- Melatonin may be used for sleep, this will be decided by the doctor during the study;
- During the study, the patient should be relaxed and eyes closed;
- Also, appropriate stimulation tests will be planned during the study (breathing test, photostimulation, etc.).
EEG duration:
A standard video EEG study lasts up to 1 hour. If necessary, a longer video EEG may be planned, for example:
- 1-3 hours;
- 3-12 hours;
- 24 hours;
- 2 or more days.
Side effects:
Video EEG has almost no complications. The procedure is painless and non-invasive.
Additional information:
A standard video EEG recording can be answered on the same day.
The patient receives the conclusion of a long video EEG recording within 72 hours. The patient can receive EEG services at home.
