Neurology Department
Electroencephalography (EEG)
What is an EEG?
EEG, also known as Electroencephalography, is the recording of electrical activity along the scalp. EEG measures voltage fluctuations resulting from ionic current flows within the neurons of the brain. Refers to recording of the brains spontaneous electrical activity over a short period of time.
What is the test used for?
EEG is used to look at your brain activity. It can be used to diagnose or monitor the following health conditions: • Abnormal changes in body chemistry that affect the brain • Brain diseases, such as Alzheimer disease • Confusion • Fainting spells or periods of memory loss that cannot be explained otherwise • Head injuries • Infections • Seizures • Tumors
How to prepare for this test?
• Prior to study bath entire body and wash hair. DO NOT use oils, lotions, gels or hair sprays. • Hair must be free of beads, weaves, etc. No chemical treatments may be administered within 48 hours before or after the EEG. • Bring a current list of any medications including strength and frequencies. • ADULTS: If AWAKE and ASLEEP patients needs to stay up until 2:00 am, and wake up at 6:00am on the day of the study. • CHILDREN: Age 5 thru 12 should go to bed 2 hours later than usual, and get up 2 hours earlier than usual, with NO NAPS • If the doctor prescribed a sleeping medication, have the prescription filled and follow the instruction to take the medication before the EEG. • Prepare to give a brief history of past and/or present.
What to expect?
• Recording is obtained by placing electrode on the scalp with conductive gel or paste, usually after preparing the scalp area by light abrasion to reduce impedance due to dead skin cells. • During the recording, a series of activation procedures may be used. This includes hyperventilation, photic stimulation (with a strobe light), eye closure, mental activity, sleep and sleep deprivation. • It will take 30 - 45 minutes as recorded from multiple electrodes placed on the scalp. • Normal activities can be resumed immediately after the test. • Your EEG reports will be kept on patient file on the system.
Ask your doctor if you have any questions about this test For inquiry call the EEG Unit at: 012-650 9000 Ext. 4004/4014 For appointment call center Ext. 9007