What are Risks during EEG ?

EEGs are non-invasive and painless. Seizures are sometimes intentionally induced in people with epilepsy during the test, but appropriate medical care is provided if necessary.

How do you prepare?

A- Medication and food Unless otherwise directed, continue to take your regular medications.

B- Other safeguards Use conditioners, hair creams, sprays, or styling gels to wash your hair the night before or the day of the test. Hair products can make it difficult for the electrodes' sticky patches to adhere to your scalp.

If you're supposed to sleep during your EEG, your doctor may advise you to sleep less or avoid sleeping the night before.

What Happen During the EEG ?.

Here are some of the things you can expect during an EEG:

• A technician will measure your head and mark your scalp with a special pencil to indicate where the electrodes will be attached. To improve the quality of the recording, these areas on your scalp may be scrubbed with a gritty cream.
• Using a special adhesive, a technician adheres discs (electrodes) to your scalp. An elastic cap fitted with electrodes is sometimes used instead. The electrodes are wired to a device that amplifies the brain waves and records them on computer equipment.
• An EEG usually takes between 20 and 40 minutes once the electrodes are in place. Certain conditions necessitate that you sleep during the test. In that case, the test may be extended.
• During the test, you relax in a comfortable position with your eyes closed. The technician may ask you to open and close your eyes, perform a few simple calculations, read a paragraph, look at a picture, breathe deeply for a few minutes, or observe a flashing light at various points.
• During an EEG, video is routinely recorded. A video camera records your body movements, while the EEG records your brain waves. This combined recording can aid your doctor in the diagnosis and treatment of your condition.
• The technician removes the electrodes or cap after the test. If you did not take a sedative before the procedure, you should have no side effects. You should be able to resume your normal routine.
• If you used a sedative, the medication will take time to wear off. Make arrangements for someone to drive you home. When you get home, rest and avoid driving for the rest of the day.

Results

• EEG analysts interpret the recordings and send the results to the doctor who ordered the EEG. You may need to make an office appointment to discuss the test results.
• Bring a family member or friend to the appointment if possible to help you remember the information.
• Make a list of questions to ask your doctor, such as:
• What are my next steps based on the results?
• What, if any, follow-up do I require?
• Are there any factors that could have influenced the results of this test?
• If you used a sedative, the medication will take time to wear off. Make arrangements for someone to drive you home. When you get home, rest and avoid driving for the rest of the day.