Electroencephalography (eeg) – testing the electrical activity of the brain

Electroencephalography, also known as EEG, is a non-invasive diagnostic test that allows for recording and analyzing the brain’s electrical activity.It is an important tool in the field of neurology that helps doctors diagnose various neurological conditions and monitor the condition of patients.In this article you will learn what electroencephalography is, what are the indications for this test, how to prepare for it and how the test itself is performed.

Eeg – what is electroencephalography?

Electroencephalography (EEG) is a method of examining the electrical activity of the brain.During this test, electrodes placed on the scalp record electrical impulses generated by nerve cells in the brain.These impulses are then transmitted to a special camera that records them in the form of graphs and curves.

EEG allows for the analysis of different types of brain waves, such as alpha, beta, theta and delta waves.Each type of wave has specific characteristics and may be associated with different brain states, such as sleep, wakefulness, or mental activity.

Eeg – what are the indications for the test?

An EEG test may be recommended in a variety of situations, including:

• Epilepsy diagnosis – EEG is often used to confirm or rule out epilepsy and monitor the effectiveness of treatment.
• Diagnosis of other neurological diseases – EEG can help diagnose diseases such as migraine, multiple sclerosis, brain tumors or encephalitis.
• Monitoring comatose patients – EEG can be used to monitor brain activity in patients who are comatose or have suffered head injuries.
• Research on mental disorders – EEG can be used in research on depression, anxiety disorders and schizophrenia.

Eeg – how to prepare for the test?

Preparing for an EEG test is usually relatively simple.Here are some recommendations that may help:

• Wash your hair before the test – this will help remove any substances that may interfere with the contact of the electrodes with the head.
• Avoid caffeine before the test – caffeine may affect EEG results, so it is worth limiting it before the test.
• Follow your doctor’s recommendations – if your doctor recommends special procedures before the examination, it is worth following them.

Eeg test – how is it performed?

The EEG test is painless and usually takes from 30 minutes to an hour.The process is as follows:

1. The patient is placed in a comfortable chair or bed.
2. Electrodes are placed on the scalp using a special conductive gel or paste.
3. The patient is asked to remain at rest, often also to close their eyes or perform specific activities such as blinking or deep breathing.
4. During the examination, electrical impulses of the brain are recorded and saved on a computer.
5. After the examination is completed, the electrodes are removed and the patient can return to daily activities.

Eeg – interpretation of results

Interpretation of EEG results is a specialized task and should be performed by an experienced neurologist.The test results may indicate various deviations from the norm, such as the presence of epileptic waves, rhythm irregularities or changes in brain activity.Based on these results, your doctor can make an appropriate diagnosis and recommend further treatment.

Eeg examination – incorrect result

If EEG results are abnormal, it does not automatically indicate the presence of a serious disease.It is worth remembering that various factors, such as fatigue, stress or infections, may affect the test results.Therefore, it is important that EEG results are interpreted by an experienced doctor who will take into account the patient’s entire clinical picture.

Eeg examination in children

EEG can also be performed in children.The procedure is similar to the examination in adults, although it may require more cooperation from the child.EEG testing in children can help diagnose epilepsy, ADHD, autism and other neurological disorders.

Head eeg – what is the price of the test?

The price of an EEG test may vary depending on the region and medical facility.In Poland, the cost of such a test usually ranges from PLN 200 to PLN 500.However, it is worth noting that the price may be higher in private medical facilities.

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It is worth remembering that electroencephalography is an important tool in the field of neurology that can help in the diagnosis and treatment of many brain diseases.If you are concerned about your mental or neurological health, please consult your doctor who may recommend appropriate diagnostic tests, including an EEG.