Electroencephalogram (EEG) Test: Types, Procedure and Results
An Electroencephalogram (EEG) is a noninvasive medical test that monitors the brain's electrical activity. Another name for this is Brain wave test. It detects abnormalities in brain waves or electrical activity. It is done by attaching many small metal discs (electrodes) to the scalp. The test shows up as wavy lines on an EEG recording.
EEG test uses to diagnose the following conditions:
EEG Test Cost or Price in India
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**Note: An EEG test cost in India at different locations may vary.
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For any abnormal value, you must consult a doctor.
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Types of EEG Test
Routine EEG
An ordinary EEG exam involves resting with your eyes closed as brain activity is measured for 20 or 40 minutes. It is used to detect conditions such as seizures or sleep disorders.
Ambulatory EEG (aEEG)
An ambulatory EEG captures brain activity for a more significant amount of time (commonly 24 to 72 hours). This is especially useful when it comes to monitoring seizures outside of a hospital by looking for ongoing brain activity.
Sleep EEG
This test is done while you are sleeping, and it looks for sleep disorders or problems that occur at night (like sleep apnea or seizures during sleep).
Video EEG
This test combines recording your brain waves with video of your entire body movements. It's commonly used to distinguish epileptic seizures from other conditions that might induce similar clinical symptoms.
EEG with Hyperventilation
During this test, you will perform deep rapid breeding. This is used to change brain activity, which can be helpful in diagnosing conditions such as epilepsy or other neurological disorders.
EEG with Photic Stimulation
In this test, lights are flashed at various frequencies to elicit brain responses that may suggest photosensitive epilepsy and other conditions.
How to Prepare for an EEG Test?
Preparing for an electroencephalogram (EEG) test involves a few important steps to ensure accurate results and a smooth testing process. Here's a detailed guide on how to get ready:
Before the Test
Wash Your Hair: Make sure to wash your hair the night before or on the morning of the test. Avoid using any hair products like conditioners, oils, sprays, or gels as they can interfere with the electrode-skin contact.
Medication Instructions:
- Follow Your Doctor's Advice: Keep taking your medications as prescribed unless your healthcare provider tells you otherwise. Also, remember to bring a list of all your medications, including dosages and frequencies.
- Avoid Certain Medications: If your doctor advises you to avoid specific medications, make sure to follow those instructions carefully.
Food and Drink:
- Avoid Caffeine: Stay away from caffeine-containing products such as coffee, tea, cola, and chocolate for at least 8-12 hours before the test. These can affect brain activity and interfere with the results.
- Have Normal Meals: Eat your regular meals before the test to maintain stable blood sugar levels, which can impact the accuracy of the results.
Sleep Instructions:
- Sleep Deprivation: In some cases, your doctor may ask you to be sleep-deprived before the test to increase the chances of detecting any abnormalities. This might involve staying up all night or reducing your sleep to just a few hours.
- Comfortable Clothing: Wear comfortable and loose-fitting clothes during the test. Avoid wearing earrings, necklaces, or hair accessories that could interfere with the placement of electrodes.
During the Test
- Relaxation: Try your best to stay relaxed and still during the test. Any movement can affect the accuracy of the results.
- Follow Instructions: The technician may ask you to perform various tasks like deep breathing, looking at a flashing light, or closing your eyes. Make sure to follow these instructions carefully.
Additional Tips
- Arrival Time: It's a good idea to arrive at the testing facility a little early. This will give you time to complete any necessary paperwork and relax before the test begins.
- Driving and Activities: If you've been sedated or sleep-deprived for the test, make sure to arrange for someone to drive you. It's important to avoid any activities that require alertness until the effects wear off.
That's it! By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared for your EEG test.
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EEG Test Procedure
The test does not cause pain and is minimally invasive. However, the electrodes themselves do not actually produce sensations–they only read your brain waves.
Here is what to expect during an EEG:
- A technician will take measurements of your head and mark the parts of your scalp with a special pencil where electrodes are placed. Some areas may be scrubbed lightly with a gritty lotion to better the high quality of playback.
- Electrodes, which are small discs that attach to the scalp with adhesive or sometimes an elastic cap with embedded electrodes. The electrodes are attached to a machine that records the electrical activity of the brain through wires.
- Temporary use of a respiratory mask (optional for severe cases)Typically between 20 and 40 minutes. For others, such as those related to sleep problems, the test might last longer.
- You will just close your eyes and relax during the test. A technician will probably have you open and close your eyes, do simple things like math, or stare at a blinking light or an image.
- Tracking movement with a video recorded alongside the EEG to assist in diagnoses This is more detail in terms of the video and brain wave recording combined.
- An EEG may also be employed for prolonged monitoring outside of the hospital. These tests record activity within the brain over a number of days and can be used to monitor for seizures, however, are less accurate at distinguishing specifically between epilepsy and pseudo-seizures.
EEG Test Results
EEG test results provide a detailed record of electrical activity in the brain, which is displayed in waveforms. A normal EEG test report shows regular, consistent brain wave patterns. Your doctor will review the EEG test report to diagnose issues and recommend appropriate treatments or further tests based on the patterns observed in the brain’s electrical activity.
EEG Test Side Effects
An EEG brain test is a non-invasive and safe test that has no noteworthy side effects. A few people may find that the electrodes on their scalp are uncomfortable, which can feel like a light pressure. Very rarely, in people with epilepsy, the test may provoke a seizure which is strictly supervised by the skilled medical team. The test is relatively low risk and is safe for most people.
