Department of Clinical Neurophysiology - What is an EEG?
An EEG (electroencephalogram) is a safe and painless test that records the electrical activity produced naturally by the brain. An EEG is performed to assess the overall functioning of the brain. The doctor who asked for your test to be performed may have told you the reasons why it is considered necessary in your assessment. The reasons why a patient can have an EEG are numerous, and each patient needs to be considered individually.
Preparation for the test involves placing some 23 small discs onto your head with sticky paste. The wires leading off the discs will then be connected to the EEG machine, please advise the person performing the test if you have any allergies such as medical tape. Your test will be stored on a computer for a doctor to interpret. Test results will not be available from the person performing the investigation; these will be given by your referring doctor.
The whole procedure takes between 45 and 60 minutes. This can be a little longer for babies or young children. Parents/carers should feel free to bring a bottle, favourite DVD or toy for the child as this can help them relax during the procedure.
It is normal to video record the procedure whilst it is being done, this helps to optimise your investigation. If you do not want to be recorded, please discuss with the clinician performing the investigation when you arrive.
Patients are asked to have eaten something within 4 hours of their appointment time. This does not have to be a large meal. For example, if you have a morning appointment breakfast, such as toast or cereal is fine.
If you have any questions about your test or additional requirements please telephone the Neurophysiology department on 01752 430193.
