How is EEG data recorded?
EEG scans are performed by placing EEG sensors – small metal discs also called EEG electrodes – on your scalp. These electrodes pick up and record the electrical activity in your brain. The collected EEG signals are amplified, digitized, and then sent to a computer or mobile device for storage and data processing.
What does an EEG recording show?
An EEG records the electrical activity of your brain via electrodes affixed to your scalp. EEG results show changes in brain activity that may be useful in diagnosing brain conditions, especially epilepsy and other seizure disorders.
What is the 10 20 electrode system in EEG recording?
The 10-20 System of Electrode Placement is a method used to describe the location of scalp electrodes. These scalp electrodes are used to record the electroencephalogram (EEG) using a machine called an electroencephalograph. Each point on this figure to the left indicates a possible electrode position.
How do EEG electrodes work?
During an EEG, small electrodes and wires are attached to your head. The electrodes detect your brain waves and the EEG machine amplifies the signals and records them in a wave pattern on graph paper or a computer screen (Fig. A sample EEG recording showing a focal spike typical of a seizure.
Will an EEG show seizure activity?
An EEG can usually show if you are having a seizure at the time of the test, but it can’t show what happens to your brain at any other time. So even though your test results might not show any unusual activity it does not rule out having epilepsy.
What does EEG check for?
An EEG, also called an electroencephalography or electroencephalogram, is a test that detects the brain ’s electrical activity or brain waves. Doctors often use the test to evaluate head injuries or to diagnose neurological disorders. Depending on the reason for the EEG, the patient may be awake or asleep during the test.
How long does EEG take?
In general, a routine EEG can take as little as 20 to 30 minutes as an outpatient procedure, or as many as 24 hours to several days in a hospital, so that brain waves can be measured during sleep. This is sometimes referred to as a prolonged or 24-hour EEG.
How long for EEG results?
EEG results are generally available within one week. Your child’s results will be forwarded to the provider who ordered the test for your child. Be sure to discuss with your doctor any questions or concerns you may have about your child’s care or treatment.
What does EEG show?
The electroencephalogram (EEG) is a measure of brain waves. It is a readily available test that provides evidence of how the brain functions over time. The EEG is used in the evaluation of brain disorders. Most commonly it is used to show the type and location of the activity in the brain during a seizure.