EEG

An EEG, or electroencephalogram, is a medical test that measures and records the electrical activity of the brain. It involves placing electrodes on the scalp to detect and amplify the electrical signals produced by brain cells (neurons). The resulting patterns of electrical activity, called brainwaves, are then displayed on a computer screen or recorded on paper.

EEGs are commonly used to diagnose and monitor various neurological conditions and disorders, as they provide valuable information about brain function and activity. The test is non-invasive and painless, making it a valuable tool for assessing brain health. Key uses of EEG include:

Diagnosis of Epilepsy: EEG is frequently used to diagnose and characterize epilepsy by detecting abnormal patterns of electrical activity in the brain during seizures. It helps determine the type of epilepsy and its specific location in the brain.
Seizure Monitoring: For individuals with known epilepsy, EEG can be used to monitor and analyze seizure activity over time, aiding in treatment adjustments and management.
Brain Function Assessment: EEG can provide insights into brain function and help diagnose various neurological disorders such as sleep disorders, brain injuries, encephalopathies (brain dysfunction), and certain movement disorders.
Sleep Studies: EEG is a fundamental tool in polysomnography, a sleep study that records brainwaves along with other physiological parameters to assess sleep stages, monitor sleep disorders, and evaluate sleep quality.
Research: EEG is used extensively in research to study brain activity during cognitive tasks, emotional responses, and various other mental processes.

During an EEG procedure:

Electrodes are attached to specific locations on the scalp using a conductive gel or paste. These electrodes measure the electrical signals emitted by the brain.
The person is asked to relax and remain still, with their eyes open or closed, during different segments of the test.
The EEG machine records the electrical activity over a specific duration, which can range from a few minutes to an hour or more.

EEGs are an essential tool in neurology due to their ability to provide valuable information about brain activity in real-time.

To schedule an EEG appointment, please call our office at 213-487-3060.