Neurons communicate with each other through electrical signals.
The EEG measures the synchrony and rhythm of electrical signals throughout the brain.
Severe brain damage, such as due to brain injury or oxygen deprivation, can cause EEG changes.
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Epilepsy can be confused with non-epilepsy conditions that may produce similar disordered movements.
An EEG is very helpful in distinguishing between epilepsy and these conditions.
An EEG would changeduring an ongoing seizure.
Additionally, an EEG technician may use techniques that can trigger a seizure to make the test more sensitive.
Hyperventilation (breathing really fast) orflashing lights can trigger a seizure.
When such techniques are used during an EEG, anti-epilepsy medication is kept nearby in case a seizure develops.
Sleep Disorders
An EEG is part of a polysomnogram sleep study.
If you have a polysomnogram to evaluate a sleep disorder, an EEG is usually part of this test.
Sleep deprivation can trigger a seizure in people who have epilepsy.
EEG Accuracy
Many factors determine the accuracy of an EEG.
You will be instructed to venture to lie still without moving during the study.
Movement can often make the results unreliable.
Anti-epilepsy medications can suppress seizure activity and may sometimes make it less likely to identify seizure patterns.
Medications used for sedation can suppress brain activity.
Interpreting Abnormal Results
The interpretation of an EEG study is very complex and requires specialized healthcare providers.
Possible EEG results include:
Your EEG results can help guide the next steps in your care.
After your EEG, your healthcare providers will discuss the results and treatment plan with you.
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