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An electroencephalogram, or EEG, is a test that measures the electrical activity of the brain. It can be used to diagnose or monitor conditions that affect the brain, such as epilepsy and sleep disorders. Your doctor will let you know if you need to have an EEG. What is an EEG test?An EEG records the electrical signals sent between brain cells. This electrical activity is shown on a computer as ‘brain waves’, which are interpreted by a specialist doctor. If something is unusual about the brain’s electrical activity, it will show up in the EEG recording. The test is safe and doesn’t hurt, as it is merely recording the brain’s electrical activity. What conditions can an EEG test help diagnose?Your doctor may recommend an EEG to diagnose or monitor conditions including:
An EEG cannot diagnose mental illnesses. Although an EEG is one of the main tools for diagnosing epilepsy, a negative or normal EEG test does not necessarily rule out epilepsy. What does an EEG test involve?During the EEG, flat metal discs (electrodes) will be placed all over your scalp. They are usually kept in place with a sticky paste. You won’t need to cut your hair. These discs are also attached to wires that send the electrical signals to a computer to record the brain waves. You won’t feel any sensations from the discs. You will need to keep still during the test. You may be asked to do some deep breathing, look at a flashing light or sleep during the test. An EEG takes about an hour, but may be longer for a sleep recording. Sometimes EEGs are conducted when you have purposely been sleep-deprived. How to prepare for an EEG testWash your hair the night before or the day of the test, so that the discs stay attached to your scalp. Avoid using conditioners, hairsprays, styling gels or other hair products. It’s also best to avoid food or drinks that contain caffeine (including coffee, tea, cola and chocolate) for at least 8 hours before the test. Your doctor will let you know if you need to stop taking any of your medicines beforehand. Learn more here about the development and quality assurance of healthdirect content. Last reviewed: April 2021 Need more information?These trusted information partners have more on this topic.
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You are welcome to continue browsing this site with this browser. Some features, tools or interaction may not work correctly. How long do EEG results take?The EEG recording must be analysed by a neurologist, who then sends the results to your doctor. It is important to make a follow-up appointment with your doctor. In many cases, the test results are sent to your doctor within 48 hours of the test.
Are you awake for an EEG?An EEG is a simple and painless test in which the electrical activity of the brain (sometimes called brain waves) is recorded from the scalp. Usually EEGs are recorded over 20 minutes while you are awake, however, in some circumstances we need to record your EEG while you feel drowsy and are asleep.
How long do you have to stay up for an EEG?Your doctor may ask you not to sleep the night before the test or to sleep for only about 4 or 5 hours. This is because some types of the brain's electrical activity can't be found unless you are asleep. If you know that you are going to have a sleep-deprived EEG, plan to have someone drive you to and from the test.
What should you not do before an EEG test?Do not eat or drink anything with caffeine in it for 12 hours before the test. This includes cola, energy drinks, and chocolate. Shampoo your hair and rinse with clear water the evening before or the morning of the test. Do not put any hair conditioner or oil on after you wash your hair.
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How long does it take to do EEG?
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