The electroencephalogram allows doctors to review the electrical activity of neurons and discover changes within the brain. Find out more here.
The brain is made up of a big and sophisticated network of specialised cells called neurons. It communicates using electrical stimuli that will be analyzed using an electroencephalogram.
The health of the human brain and the whole central nervous system (CNS) will be assessed through numerous tests. In this fashion, it is feasible to detect structural abnormalities and nerve dysfunctions in time. Electroencephalography, tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are a number of the most typical tests.
According to specialists, the electroencephalogram is the tactic of selection within the diagnosis of epileptic seizures and epilepsy. This medical tool has saved thousands and thousands of lives. However, its usefulness goes far beyond diagnostics.
What is an electroencephalogram?
It is a functional exploration technique that measures the electrical activity of the brain in real time. According to research, it was Hans Berger who coined the term electroencephalogram (EEG) in 1929 to explain the recording of brain electrical fluctuations captured by electrodes attached to the scalp.
Neurons are at all times energetic, transmitting electrical impulses within the CNS. The EEG captures and amplifies these electrical signals, displaying them in wavy lines that indicate the activity of various areas of the brain.
In most cases an EEG is performed in the essential state and is subject to activation methodscorresponding to hyperventilation or visual stimulation. In fact, some experts recommend getting an in depth brain record when you sleep. In addition, 24-hour EEG checks can be found.
This test produces normal and abnormal patterns that allow for the diagnosis of injuries or characteristic disorders corresponding to seizures. For this reason, it’s a complementary test, widely utilized in neurological consultations.
Why is that this test done?
It is within the medical interest to evaluate the state of the brain’s electrical activity individuals with suspected episodic or persistent nervous disorders. The most typical indications for an electroencephalogram include:
- Alteration of upper functions corresponding to memory and consciousness
- Epilepsy or other seizure syndromes
- Sleep disorders corresponding to insomnia
- Encephalitis and other CNS infections
- Cerebrovascular disease (CVD)
- Monitoring during brain surgery
- Serious brain injury
- Skull tumors
- Alzheimer’s disease
Similarly an EEG is beneficial for confirming brain death in patients in deep coma. Similarly, it offers interesting data on drug-induced anesthesia.
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Possible risks and contraindications
Overall EEG is a reasonably secure technique and doesn’t cause any style of pain or antagonistic reactions. Controlled methods are sometimes used to induce seizures, corresponding to light stimulation or hyperventilation. However, the specialist is trained to offer medical attention if needed.
Preparations for the EEG
There are several recommendations that have to be followed before an EEG is performed. In this fashion, we’re sure that the test might be performed accurately and without errors in the outcomes.
In this regard, preparation for the EEG includes:
- Wash your hair the night before or a couple of hours before the test.
- Avoid using hair conditioners, gels, oils, creams or hairsprays as they could prevent the electrodes from sticking.
- For hair extensions, ask your doctor for instructions.
- Don’t change or stop your regular medication without your doctor’s advice. Consult your doctor for further information.
- Avoid caffeine-containing foods and drinks 6 to eight hours before the test.
- Sleep lower than usual with an EEG during sleep.
- Do not take energizers or other products to stay upespecially if you must sleep in the course of the test.
How is an EEG performed?
This test is performed by an expert EEG technician in a medical center, private practice or laboratory. He or she might be accountable for guiding the patient through the whole process in a secure and easy manner.
During the test
The person assessed must lie down on a stretcher or reclining chair. The technician will then be accountable for measuring different diameters of the skull and marking the points where the electrodes might be placed. These discs don’t cause any pain and are accountable for recording brain activity.
Generally, the electrodes are placed on the scalp with a special adhesive. Caps containing electrodes are sometimes used. The electrodes might be wired to an instrument that captures and amplifies the electrical signal.
During the test, the topic must remain relaxed and have their eyes closed. Sometimes the technician may ask the person to open and shut their eyelids, take quick, deep breaths, do calculations, or have a look at a vivid light. In addition, the patient could also be asked to sleep in the course of the assessment.
In most cases, body movements during an EEG are recorded on video. In this fashion, the doctor can mix the brainwave recording with these images to make a more accurate diagnosis.
On the opposite hand, an outpatient EEG could also be indicated for individuals who require longer-term monitoring. This device will accompany the patient throughout the day and can store the brain’s electrical records while performing normal activities.
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after the test
A basic EEG often lasts 20 to 40 minutes, once the electrodes are in place. However, as mentioned earlier, some tests may require the patient to sleep, which increases the duration of the test.
At the top of the EEG, the technician will remove the electrodes out of your scalp. Some people might have sedatives to induce sleep, so a friend or member of the family might have to accompany them home after the test. If you will not be taking any sedatives, you’ll be able to resume your every day activities normally.
Electroencephalogram results
This test provides a printed record of brain activity, represented by waves drawn with different frequencies and amplitudes. The characteristics of the EEG vary depending on the state of consciousness. In this sense, the waves are frequently faster when the patient is awake and slower during sleep phases.
Only healthcare professionals are qualified to interpret the EEG and make an accurate diagnosis. In general, the presence of broad, sharp waves may indicate a seizure disorder corresponding to epilepsy. Bleeding, tumors, and brain aneurysms are other common causes of abnormal results.
If you’ve gotten any doubts, don’t hesitate to seek the advice of a physician specializing in neurology.
EEG: a great tool to evaluate the state of the brain
EEG is secure and useful a test to evaluate the health of the brain and the whole central nervous system. Early diagnosis of neurological diseases improves the standard of life for many individuals and prevents long-term complications. Its administration and interpretation have to be performed by healthcare professionals.
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