
An EEG is of value for diagnosing epilepsy only if it detects patterns typical of epilepsy. For example, if you have a seizure disorder, the EEG can show where abnormal activity in your brain comes from and can help distinguish between generalized or focal seizures. It is most often used to determine the type and origin of seizures. This allows you to be observed during a seizure so that your physical behavior can be monitored at the same time as your EEG.Īn EEG measures electricity that your brain makes it does NOT measure thoughts or feelings, and it does not send any electricity into your brain. You stay in the hospital and are monitored both by EEG and a video camera.
Video EEG monitoring is available in specialized centers for patients with frequent seizures or sleep disorders. The EEG recorder along with a diary you keep of daily activities and drug dosages helps the doctor relate your activity to specific EEG recordings. #EEG DEVICE PORTABLE#
Ambulatory EEG involves wearing a portable EEG recorder on a belt around your waist for several days or weeks. You will be given specific instructions regarding food, drink, and medications that may need to be avoided. Abnormal brain waves may appear when the body is stressed or fatigued. You may be asked to do a sleep-deprived EEG, which requires you to have only 4 hours of sleep. Standard EEG recording is done in the office and usually lasts an hour. There are several different ways to conduct an EEG: A sample EEG recording showing a focal spike typical of a seizure.