There are certain situations where the doctor would require you or your loved one to undergo electroencephalogram or EEG. But before you do, it is best that you have a thorough understanding of the procedure. This way, you can prepare yourself mentally on what to expect. Neurofeedback and EEG courses in Australia can help those who want to study about it, but for those who just want to learn about the basics, then this article is for you.

When Is EEG Needed?

Electroencephalogram is requested by your doctor to help determine if there are any changes in the brain activity. This can help diagnose certain brain disorders like epilepsy. The EEG can be very helpful in diagnosing and treating brain tumor, stroke, sleep disorders, encephalitis, brain dysfunction, and even brain damage caused by a head injury. EEG can also be used to confirm if an individual is brain dead or in a persistent coma.

Pre-EEG Preparations

If you or your loved one needs to undergo EEG, it is important that you know how to prepare before the procedure. When it comes to food, it is vital to avoid caffeine during the day of the test. Simply because it can alter the results. For medications, take as usual unless instructed otherwise by your doctor.

Washing your hair the night before can help but avoid using conditioners, styling gels, sprays, or hair creams. These hair products can make it difficult for the patches to hold the electrodes to your scalp. If sleep is needed during the test, your doctor might require you to sleep less or to avoid sleeping the night before the procedure.

EEG – What To Expect?

EEG is a pain-free procedure. The electrodes that are transmitted to your body will not cause any pain nor will it transmit any sensations. To help you prepare, here are some of the most important things that you need to expect to happen during your EEG:

• Taking Measurements. The technician will start to measure your head and put marks on your scalp using a special pencil. This can help determine where the electrodes will go. Using a cream, it will be rubbed onto the scalp to improve recording quality.

• Attaching Electrodes. The next step is to attach the electrodes using a special adhesive. There are times that technicians use an elastic cap already fitted with electrodes connected to wires onto an instrument that can amplify the brain waves. These waves are then recorded on a computer.

• Test Begins. Now that the electrodes are connected, all you need is to stay in a comfortable position. Follow the technicians’ instructions like opening and closing your eyes, performing simple calculations, reading, looking at a picture, and so on.

Post EEG Expectations

Once the EEG is done, the technician will remove the cap or the electrodes from your scalp. As long as you do not need any sedative to keep you asleep during the procedure, you can right away go back to your normal routine once the test is done. All you need to do now is to wait for the results, which your neurologist would read and interpret for you.