A neurologist can determine whether the cause is dementia or another neurological condition that impacts memory. They can also prescribe medications to help slow down the dementia or treat the other underlying condition. A neurologist can help assess the extent of the damage to your brain. They can develop a treatment plan and prescribe medications to help you recover.
Doctors trained to analyze EEGs interpret the recording and send the results to the doctor who ordered the EEG. You might need to schedule an office appointment to discuss the results of the test. If you didn’t have a sedative, you should feel no side effects after the procedure. During an EEG, flat metal discs (electrodes) are attached to the scalp. In a high-density EEG, shown here, the electrodes are close together.
Electroencephalogram (EEG) is a non-invasive test that measures and records the electrical activity of the brain. It involves placing electrodes on the scalp to detect the electrical signals produced by brain cells. But why would a neurologist order an EEG?
Diagnosis of Epilepsy: One of the primary reasons a neurologist may order an EEG is to diagnose epilepsy. Abnormal electrical activity in the brain can indicate the presence of seizures, which are characteristic of epilepsy. An EEG can help identify specific patterns of brain waves associated with seizure activity.
This test can record brain activity over several days, which increases the chances of recording during seizure activity. However, compared with inpatient video EEG monitoring, an ambulatory EEG is not as good at determining the difference between epileptic seizures and nonepileptic seizures. An electroencephalogram (EEG) is a test that measures electrical activity in the brain using small, metal discs (electrodes) attached to the scalp. Brain cells communicate via electrical impulses and are active all the time, even during asleep. Your brain cells communicate via electrical impulses, even while you sleep.
While they are commonly used in clinical trials, they are also used in the clinic as another measure to gauge a patient’s health over time. Many NeuLine patients undergo EEGs as part of an epilepsy diagnosis – either for a new diagnosis or to reevaluate medication if they have already been diagnosed. Sometimes seizures are intentionally triggered in people with epilepsy during the test, but appropriate medical care is provided if needed. A brain aneurysm is a bulging or ballooning in a blood vessel in the brain. A brain aneurysm can rupture or leak, causing cerebral haemorrhage (hemorrhagic stroke). A ruptured brain aneurysm is most commonly found between the brain and the thin tissues that surround it.
Monitoring Seizure Activity: In addition to diagnosing epilepsy, an EEG is also useful for monitoring seizure activity over time. By tracking changes in brain wave patterns during seizures, a neurologist can evaluate the effectiveness of treatment and make adjustments as needed.
Assessment of Brain Function: EEGs can provide valuable information about brain function in patients with neurological conditions such as dementia, brain tumors, or head injuries. Abnormal patterns of brain waves may indicate abnormalities in brain activity that require further investigation.
Identification of Sleep Disorders: Some sleep disorders, such as narcolepsy or sleep apnea, can be detected through abnormalities in brain wave patterns during sleep. An EEG can help pinpoint the underlying cause of these disorders and guide appropriate treatment options.
No electricity is put into your body while it’s carried out. Apart from having messy hair and possibly feeling a bit tired, you normally will not experience any side effects. It may be used if a routine EEG does not give enough information, or to test for sleep disorders. You will usually be asked to open or close your eyes from time to time. In most cases, you’ll also be asked to breathe in and out deeply (called hyperventilation) for a few minutes.
You may also be asked to participate in additional testing due to the nervous system’s complexity. Memory problems and forgetfulness are two more prevalent symptoms for which you might want to see a neurologist. Despite this, we think Bumrungrad is a great choice if you’re looking for outstanding physicians with strong educational backgrounds and industry experience. Many of the patients we spoke with laud her for being extraordinarily personable and expert. We are also impressed that Dr. Sasitorn Siritho has written numerous research articles on different aspects of neurology and is a part of various international affiliations.
Evaluation of Brain Trauma: Patients who have experienced traumatic brain injuries may undergo an EEG to assess the extent of damage to brain tissue. Abnormal electrical activity in the brain following a head injury can indicate areas of dysfunction that require medical attention.
In conclusion, an EEG is a valuable tool in neurology for diagnosing epilepsy, monitoring seizure activity, assessing brain function, identifying sleep disorders, and evaluating brain trauma. By providing insights into the electrical activity of the brain, an EEG helps neurologists make informed decisions about the care and treatment of their patients.
