At NIHS Clinic, we provide comprehensive Electroencephalogram (EEG) services as part of our neurological diagnostic offerings. An EEG is a non-invasive test that records electrical activity in the brain, making it essential for diagnosing and monitoring neurological conditions. This painless procedure helps in evaluating brain activity, diagnosing epilepsy, and assessing other brain disorders.

What is an Electroencephalogram (EEG)? An EEG is a diagnostic test that measures electrical impulses in the brain using small electrodes placed on the scalp. The brain’s nerve cells communicate with each other through electrical signals, and the EEG captures these signals, displaying them as wave patterns on a computer screen. These patterns provide critical insights into brain function and are useful for diagnosing a variety of neurological conditions.

Why is an EEG Performed? EEGs are performed to diagnose and monitor a range of neurological conditions. Some of the primary reasons for undergoing an EEG at NIHS Clinic include:

1. Diagnosis of Epilepsy:

   • Purpose: Identifies abnormal electrical activity associated with seizures. EEG is the most common test used to diagnose epilepsy and to classify the type of epilepsy a patient has.

   • Who Needs It: Patients experiencing unexplained seizures, loss of consciousness, or other symptoms that suggest seizure activity.

2. Monitoring Seizure Disorders:

   • Purpose: Tracks the effectiveness of treatments for epilepsy by monitoring brain activity over time. It helps in adjusting medications and treatment plans.

   • Who Needs It: Individuals with a known diagnosis of epilepsy, especially those who continue to have seizures despite treatment.

3. Evaluation of Brain Disorders:

   • Purpose: Detects abnormalities in brain function that could be caused by conditions such as brain tumors, strokes, head injuries, or degenerative brain diseases.

   • Who Needs It: Patients with symptoms like memory loss, confusion, or changes in behavior, which may be linked to neurological disorders.

4. Sleep Disorders Diagnosis:

   • Purpose: Assesses brain activity during sleep to diagnose sleep disorders, such as narcolepsy or sleep apnea, especially when combined with polysomnography (a comprehensive sleep study).

   • Who Needs It: Individuals with excessive daytime sleepiness, difficulty sleeping, or other sleep-related issues.

5. Evaluation of Unconsciousness or Coma:

   • Purpose: Assesses brain activity in patients who are unconscious or in a coma, helping to determine the level of brain function and possible causes.

   • Who Needs It: Patients who have suffered a severe head injury, stroke, or other conditions leading to coma or altered consciousness.

6. Brain Activity Monitoring During Surgery:

   • Purpose: Monitors brain activity in real-time during certain types of brain or neurological surgeries, ensuring the brain’s safety and functionality.

   • Who Needs It: Patients undergoing complex brain surgeries where real-time monitoring of brain function is critical.

Preparation for EEG:

• General Preparation:

  • Hair Washing: Patients are advised to wash their hair the night before or the morning of the test, avoiding any hair products like oils, sprays, or gels, as they can interfere with electrode placement.

  • Sleep Deprivation: In some cases, particularly for epilepsy testing, patients may be asked to sleep less than usual the night before the test. Sleep deprivation can increase the likelihood of detecting abnormal brain activity during the EEG.

  • Medications: Patients should inform the clinic about any medications they are taking, as some may affect the results. Certain medications might need to be adjusted or paused before the test, but only under a doctor’s guidance.

  • Dietary Restrictions: Generally, no specific dietary restrictions are required, but it’s advised to avoid caffeine on the day of the test, as it can influence brain activity.

Procedure Details:

• Process:

  • Electrode Placement: The patient will be seated or lie down comfortably. The technician will place small, flat metal discs called electrodes on the scalp, using a special conductive paste or gel to ensure good contact. In some cases, a cap with built-in electrodes might be used.

  • Recording Brain Activity: Once the electrodes are in place, the EEG machine begins to record the electrical activity of the brain. The patient is usually asked to remain still with their eyes closed. However, the technician may ask the patient to perform specific tasks, such as opening and closing their eyes, taking deep breaths, or looking at a flashing light, to observe how these actions affect brain activity.

  • Duration: The test usually lasts about 30 to 60 minutes. In some cases, a longer EEG (such as an overnight EEG or ambulatory EEG, where the patient wears the device at home) may be required to capture brain activity over a more extended period.

Safety and Risks:

• Safety: EEG is a safe, non-invasive procedure with no known risks. It does not involve radiation or any invasive techniques, making it suitable for patients of all ages, including children and pregnant women.

• Risks: There are no significant risks associated with an EEG. Some patients may experience mild discomfort when the electrodes are applied, or they might feel slightly dizzy or tired during hyperventilation or other tasks performed during the test. However, these effects are temporary and usually resolve quickly.

Post-Procedure:

• Recovery: There is no recovery time needed. Patients can return to their normal activities immediately after the test. If sleep deprivation was required, patients should arrange for someone to drive them home due to possible drowsiness.

• Results: The EEG results are interpreted by a neurologist, who will analyze the brain wave patterns to identify any abnormalities. The findings are typically shared with the referring physician, who will discuss the results with the patient and recommend any necessary follow-up tests or treatments.

Benefits:

• Non-Invasive and Painless: EEG provides valuable information about brain function without the need for surgery or other invasive procedures.

• Real-Time Monitoring: Allows for real-time assessment of brain activity, making it crucial for diagnosing conditions like epilepsy and monitoring treatment effectiveness.

• Wide Range of Applications: Useful for diagnosing a variety of neurological conditions, from epilepsy and sleep disorders to brain injuries and tumors.

• No Radiation Exposure: EEG uses only electrical signals, making it a safe option for repeated testing and for vulnerable populations, such as children and pregnant women.

Advanced Technology and Expertise: At NIHS Clinic, our EEG services are conducted using state-of-the-art equipment, ensuring accurate and reliable results. Our experienced neurologists and technicians are dedicated to providing thorough, compassionate care, helping you understand and manage your neurological health effectively.

For precise brain activity evaluation and peace of mind, trust the EEG services at NIHS Clinic. Contact us today to schedule your EEG or to learn more about our comprehensive neurological services.