EEG (electroencephalogram)

Be sure to tell your doctor

• All your medicines, especially for seizures and calming medicines. Do not stop them on your own
• What your attacks look like and when you had the last one
• If flashing lights make you feel unwell

How to prepare

• Hair. Wash your hair the day before or that morning. No conditioner, oil, hairspray, or gel. The sensors must sit close to your scalp.
• Hairstyle. Take out braids, hair clips, and hair extensions. Do not wear earrings or metal jewelry on your head.
• Food. Eat as usual. Hunger can change the recording. It is better to skip strong coffee and energy drinks that day.
• Sleep. If you have a sleep EEG or one after a sleepless night, your clinic will tell you how much to sleep the night before.

What to bring

• Your referral
• Past EEGs and reports
• A list of your medicines
• A towel or a hat. Your hair will be damp from the gel
• Your child's favorite toy

How it goes

1. You sit in a chair or lie down
2. A soft cap with sensors is put on your head, or the sensors are attached with gel
3. You are asked to close your eyes and sit quietly
4. You are asked to open and close your eyes a few times
5. For about 3 minutes, you breathe deeply and fast
6. A bright light flashes in front of your eyes

What you'll feel

• The cap presses a little, and the gel feels cool
• Fast breathing can make you dizzy or your fingers tingle. This passes
• No current is sent to you. It does not hurt

Afterwards

• The gel is washed off, and you can go back to your day right away
• The report is usually given the same day or within a few days
• A neurologist explains the results