Information developed by A.D.A.M., Inc. regarding tests and test results may not directly correspond with information provided by UCSF Health. Please discuss with your doctor any questions or concerns you may have. The doctor or technician will tell the patient when and how they will learn the results of their EEG.
When it comes to understanding the functioning of our brain, brain wave tests play a crucial role. These tests provide valuable insights into the electrical activity in the brain, helping healthcare professionals diagnose and treat various neurological conditions.
What is a Brain Wave Test?
A brain wave test, also known as an electroencephalogram (EEG), is a non-invasive procedure that records the electrical activity of the brain. By measuring the patterns of brain waves, doctors can detect abnormalities that may indicate seizures, epilepsy, sleep disorders, and other neurological conditions.
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. Routine EEG recordings usually take 20 to 40 minutes, although a typical appointment will last about an hour, including some preparation time at the beginning and some time at the end. An EEG can be used to help diagnose and monitor a number of conditions affecting the brain. The EEG procedure is usually carried out by a highly trained specialist, called a clinical neurophysiologist, during a short visit to hospital. An EEG may be done to show that the brain has no activity, in the case of someone who is in a deep coma.
Types of Brain Wave Tests
Wash your hair the night before the test but don’t use any conditioner, cream, gel, or spray. These products could make it harder for the electrodes to stick to your scalp. If you are having a sleep EEG, your doctor may tell you not to sleep or to sleep less the night before. Don’t have any caffeinated products, such as cola or tea, or any nicotine before the test. EEGs are generally safe and painless, but there’s a small risk of having a seizure during the test if you have epilepsy and flashing lights are used during the test.
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. Once the electrodes are in place, the technician will have you close your eyes and relax. It’s important to stay very still while your brain waves are being recorded—if you even blink or swallow, it can throw off the reading. Any change to the pattern of brain waves is an abnormal result.
Medication is the first line of treatment in the management of epilepsy. With regular medication and a sensible lifestyle a full and active life is possible. An EEG usually takes about an hour but may be longer for a sleep recording. During the test, very little electricity passes between the electrodes and your skin, so you’ll feel very little to no discomfort. Read on to learn about an EEG, including why it’s done, what to expect, and the possible risks.
During an EEG, you may be asked to do some deep breathing or look at a flashing light. If you have had a sleep-deprived EEG, you may be asked to sleep during the test. When you get an EEG, doctors may test your senses, such as hearing, seeing, or feeling, to see how well your brain responds. For example, they may shine a light in your eyes to see activity in your brain’s vision area.
The different lobes of the brain are responsible for particular functions, such as language, memory, or speech. Peters is a board-certified neurologist and sleep medicine specialist and is a fellow of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. Your provider will tell you when you can go back to taking any medicines you stopped before the test. Once everything is in place and you have been given specific instructions on what to do next, you can leave to go home for the next 24 hours to 72 hours. The room where the test takes place will be quiet and dimly lit to help you relax.
- Routine EEG: This test involves placing electrodes on the scalp to record brain wave patterns during normal activities.
- Ambulatory EEG: In this test, electrodes are worn for an extended period to monitor brain activity during daily activities.
- Video EEG monitoring: This test combines EEG with video recording to capture any behavioral changes during seizures.
FAQs about Brain Wave Tests
- Is a brain wave test painful? No, a brain wave test is a painless procedure that involves placing electrodes on the scalp.
- How long does a brain wave test take? A routine EEG typically takes 30-60 minutes, while an ambulatory EEG may last up to 72 hours.
- Are there any risks associated with brain wave tests? Brain wave tests are safe and only carry a minimal risk of skin irritation from the electrodes.
