An Electroencephalogram, or
EEG, is a medical test that measures the electrical activity in your brain.
Here's a simple breakdown:
1.Purpose:
• Brain
Waves: It records the electrical signals produced by your brain cells, known as
neurons.
• Diagnostic
Tool: Helps doctors assess and diagnose conditions like epilepsy, sleep
disorders, and brain injuries.
2.Procedure:
• Small
Electrodes: Metal discs are placed on your scalp with adhesive.
• Recording:
These electrodes pick up the electrical signals, which are then amplified and
recorded by a machine.
3.Patient Experience:
• Painless:
The test is painless and doesn't involve injections or radiation.
• Relaxation:
You'll be asked to relax with your eyes closed and open during the test, which
usually lasts 20 to 60 minutes.
4.After the Test:
• Analysis: A
neurologist reviews the recorded brainwave patterns.
• Results:
These results help in diagnosing conditions and guiding treatment decisions.
5.Applications:
• Diagnostic
Tool: Identifies various neurological conditions.
• Monitoring:
Used during surgeries or to assess brain function in certain cases.
6.Safety:
•
Non-Invasive: Doesn't require instruments inside your body.
• Painless:
No discomfort beyond the electrode attachment.
In essence,
an EEG is a valuable tool that provides insights into your brain's electrical
activity, aiding in the understanding and diagnosis of neurological conditions.