This study is generally done by an EEG technician.
Or you may be exposed to a bright flashing light. For example, you may be asked to breathe deeply and rapidly for 3 minutes. The recording may be stopped periodically to let you rest or reposition yourself.Īfter your provider does the initial recording while you're at rest, they may test you with various stimuli to make brain wave activity that doesn't show up while you're resting. Your provider may monitor you through a window in an adjoining room to watch for any movements that can cause an inaccurate reading, such as swallowing or blinking. Once the recording begins, you'll need to remain still throughout the test. You'll be asked to close your eyes, relax, and be still. Or a cap with the electrodes will be used. You'll be asked to relax in a reclining chair or lie on a bed.īetween 16 and 25 electrodes will be attached to your scalp with a special paste. Talk with your provider about what to expect. Procedures may vary depending on your condition and your healthcare provider's practices.
Low blood sugar may influence the results.īased on your health condition, your provider may request other specific preparations.Īn EEG may be done on an outpatient basis or as part of your stay in a hospital. Children may not be allowed to sleep for more than 5 to 7 hours the night before.ĭon't fast the night before or the day of the procedure. If the EEG is to be done during sleep, adults may not be allowed to sleep more than 4 or 5 hours the night before the test. Some EEG tests require that you sleep through the procedure, and some don't. Don't stop using medicines without first talking your provider.ĭon't consume any food or drinks containing caffeine for 8 to 12 hours before the test.įollow any directions your provider gives you about reducing your sleep the night before the test. Stop taking medicines that may interfere with the test if your provider has told you to do so. Tell your provider about all prescription and over-the-counter medicines and any herbal supplements that you're taking. Don't use any hair styling products, such as hairspray or gel. Wash your hair with shampoo, but don't use a conditioner the night before the test. Read the form carefully and ask questions if something isn't clear. You'll be asked to sign a consent form that gives your permission to do the procedure. Below is a list of common steps that you may be asked to do: Ask your provider what you should do before your test. Your healthcare provider will explain the procedure to you, and you can ask questions. While these drinks can sometimes change the EEG results, they almost never interfere significantly with the interpretation of the test. Lights, especially bright or flashing onesĭrinks containing caffeine, such as coffee, cola, and tea. This will rarely, if ever, majorly interfere with the interpretation of the test. Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) caused by fastingīody or eye movement during the test. Talk about any concerns with your provider before the procedure.Ĭertain factors or conditions may interfere with the reading of an EEG test. Other risks may be present, depending on your specific health condition. If you do get a seizure, your healthcare provider will treat it right away. This is due to the flashing lights or the deep breathing that may be involved during the test. In rare cases, an EEG can cause seizures in a person with a seizure disorder. There is also no risk of getting an electric shock.