EEG Patient Information and Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ:

What is an EEG?

An electroencephalogram or EEG is a safe, effective, and painless procedure that creates and records an image of your brainwaves.

What happens during an EEG?

An EEG technologist or neurodiagnostics assistant will measure your head, then use a washable, non-toxic grease pencil to mark specific spots for placement of the small metal or plastic electrodes. The tech will then clean each marked spot and attach these electrodes using a washable, adhesive paste to the cleaned area. (They will not be cutting your hair) After they’re all in place, each electrode is hardwired to an EEG machine. The EEG machine is turned on, and it starts to record brainwaves. Depending on age and the purpose of the EEG, you may be asked to perform certain activities during brainwave recording. For example, the technologist may ask you to breathe deeply and rapidly or to look at a flickering light.

When may I need an EEG?

EEG's frequently diagnose epilepsy and seizure disorders, but they also help identify and guide treatment for other conditions, such as:

An EEG is also an essential test performed when children have a developmental delay.

How do I prepare for an EEG?

Have clean, dry hair; no oils, lotions, hairsprays, gel, or grease etc.

Patients must be sleep deprived; no more than 4 hours of sleep the night before your procedure.

Please bring your infant/child’s favorite blanket or toy. Tablets are acceptable to use during hook up. (A snack, bottle, or breastfeeding are recommended and something the techs are accustomed to; this will help to calm or soothe the patient.)

How long does an EEG procedure last?

An EEG can take from one and a half to two hours.

What does an EEG feel like?

You may feel gentle sensations during spot cleaning and electrode attachment. Otherwise, the procedure is painless, and you won’t feel any sensations during the test.

How long does it take to get EEG results back?

EEG results will be given to your referring provider within 24 to 72 hours (depending on the length of the EEG study).

Can I eat or drink during/before or after the EEG?

Yes, A snack, bottle, or breastfeeding are recommended and something the techs are very accustomed to, to help calm or soothe the patient.

Can I take my medications?

Yes, Take your usual medications unless instructed otherwise.

  • Traumatic Brain Injury

  • Brain Tumors

  • Brain Inflammation (Encephalitis)

  • Brain Dysfunction

  • Headaches

  • Behavioral Changes

  • Sleep Disorders

  • Dizziness and Fainting

For Ambulatory (in-home) EEG Patients:

  • Wi-Fi will be needed for remote monitoring EEG equipment (if Wi-Fi is not available, please inform the scheduler.)

  • The EEG machine is portable and the size of a carry-on luggage; it will need to be placed in a location of the home where the patient spends most of their time, and where the Wi-Fi signal is strong., (i.e. living room, patients bedroom etc.)

  • If there are pets in the home, we ask that pets are put away while the tech is there hooking up the patient.

  • The tech will be in your home for about an hour to an hour and a half to set up the equipment and hook up the patient.

  • Wearing a loose shirt or a button up top will work best while EEG is running.

  • No showers or baths while EEG is running.

  • There is an equipment release form that will need to be signed for any damage to the equipment.

  • If the patient must leave the home, they will need to call the number the tech leaves with them at the time of hook up.

  • After the EEG, the patient’s hair will need to be washed due to the gel and paste that is used for electrode placement.