The electrodes will be attached to a small portable EEG recorder that can be clipped onto your clothing. Your healthcare provider may refer you to a specialist, like a neurologist, who can diagnose, treat or manage your condition. Some people may feel dizzy while taking deep breaths during the test. If you have certain forms of epilepsy, deep breathing (hyperventilation) or light (photic) stimulation during the EEG may trigger an epileptic seizure. This doesn’t happen very often, and if it does, your technician will know what to do to help you during a seizure.
An electroencephalogram, or EEG, is a test that measures and records the electrical activity in the brain. This non-invasive procedure is commonly used to diagnose various neurological conditions, such as epilepsy, sleep disorders, and brain tumors.
However, in cases wherein the test is being performed to observe a sleep-related problem, the recording of brain activity may last for the whole duration of the patient’s sleep. In the event of a seizure, a large super-synchronous neuronal discharge is created from an abnormal brain network. EEG evaluation provides important information about the localization and the spread of such discharges.
These lines allow doctors to quickly assess whether there are abnormal patterns. Irregularities may be a sign of seizures or other brain disorders. Referential montages can be useful to clarify the electrode of maximal voltage if that is unclear on bipolar montages. In referential, you compare the voltage of all electrodes to a single reference, such as an average value or the electrically silent earlobe. This tracing clip is the same clip as the double banana clip above, but note how different they appear based on the arrangement of the electrodes’ connections.
Benefits of an EEG
1. Diagnosing Epilepsy
A routine EEG is typically performed within 24 hours of your first seizure. An ambulatory EEG is a longer test that monitors brain wave activity over time. If your results are normal, it means you did not have abnormal brain wave patterns or seizures during the test. However, it is possible to get normal results even if you have a history of seizures or epilepsy. If you’re being evaluated for epilepsy, your neurologist will look for patterns on your EEG called epileptiform. They can look like spikes, sharp waves, or spike-and-wave discharges on the test.
A certain part of my brain will increase its activity to send the message to complete this action, and that area of the brain will receive ever-so-slightly more oxygen-rich blood. MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) provides a map of the brain – how it looks at a set moment in time. These advancements have not only improved the time and complexity of EEG setup, but also made it easier for technicians without extensive prior EEG experience to collect high-quality EEG brain data effortlessly. Recent technological developments have significantly streamlined EEG testing. Many modern EEG devices eliminate the need for electrolytic gel, and thus the requirement to wash the head after the session. Examples are the Bitbrain Versatile EEG (use of tap water), Minimal EEG (dry metal sensors) or Textile EEG (dry textiles sensors).
One of the primary benefits of an EEG is its ability to diagnose epilepsy. By monitoring the brain’s electrical activity, doctors can identify abnormal patterns that are indicative of seizures. This information is crucial for determining the most effective treatment plan for individuals with epilepsy.
An electroencephalogram (EEG) is a type of test performed to measure the brain’s electrical activity to detect any irregularities indicative of different brain disorders. It is done by using special sensors, called electrodes, which are attached to the head and wired to a computer that records the brain’s electrical activity, which is represented as a series of wavy lines. Your healthcare provider is your best resource for insight into your test results. They’ll look for abnormal brain waves or rhythms, which may indicate brain dysfunction or epileptic activity.
2. Monitoring Brain Activity
EEGs are also used to monitor brain activity during certain procedures, such as brain surgery or when administering anesthesia. By continuously monitoring the electrical signals in the brain, healthcare providers can ensure that the patient’s brain function remains stable throughout the procedure.
3. Assessing Sleep Disorders
Another benefit of an EEG is its ability to assess sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea or narcolepsy. By analyzing the brain’s electrical activity during different stages of sleep, doctors can diagnose and treat these conditions more effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can an EEG detect brain tumors?
- Is an EEG safe?
While an EEG cannot directly detect brain tumors, it can help identify abnormal brain activity that may be associated with a tumor. Additional imaging tests, such as MRI or CT scans, are typically required to confirm the presence of a brain tumor.
Yes, an EEG is a safe and painless procedure that does not involve any radiation exposure. The electrodes used to record brain activity are simply placed on the scalp and do not cause any discomfort to the patient.
In conclusion, the benefits of an EEG are vast and varied. From diagnosing epilepsy to monitoring brain activity during surgery, this test plays a crucial role in the field of neurology and provides valuable insights into brain function and health.
