Adult EEG Test Instructions
The electroencephalograph (EEG) is a safe painless procedure that uses a machine to translate the electrical activity of the brain into a series of wavy lines. It is used to find out if there is any abnormality in the electrical function of the brain. The EEG machine can detect electrical abnormalities in the brain but can not read your mind. Your head will be measured and marked with a wax pen to identify the locations to place electrodes. Electrodes or leads are small metal disks that are attached to your scalp with a special paste or glue. Depending on the possible diagnosis needed the technologist may ask you to breathe deeply through your mouth for a short time, which can produce a slightly dizzy feeling or numbness in the hands or feet. This will go away when you begin to breath normally again. A strobe light may be flashed into your eyes, or you may be asked to open, and close your eyes a few times. You may be asked to sleep or to do other simple tasks. We do these individualized tasks to help diagnose your specific problem.
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THE TEST
AFTER THE TEST
There are no specific discharge instructions for an EEG and you can resume your normal activities. If you did go to bed later than normal and, or got up earlier than normal, you may want to sleep before continuing your routine. You will be able to wash your hair here after the test or you can wait until you get home. If a paste was used to attach the electrodes it will wash out fairly easily. Once the test is completed the glued electrodes will be removed with an acetone mixture that will leave your hair a little greasy; washing your hair with shampoo will return your hair to normal. The technician will do his or her best to remove all the glue. However, in many cases some of the glue may still be attached to the scalp when you leave the lab and it may look like your scalp is flaking. When you get home, use a fine tooth comb and gently scratch your scalp to loosen the glue. You may also use an acetone based fingernail polish remover.
RESULTS
Due to the large amount of data recorded on your study, it takes a little time to review all the data. The study is analyzed carefully and a report is generated. If your referring physician is outside of Vanderbilt, your results will be faxed to him or her in approximately 5-7 business days. If your referring physician is within Vanderbilt, he or she will be able to obtain the results electronically in our internal electronic medical record system within 3-4 business days. If another physician wishes to obtain a copy of your report, he or she may phone our office at (615) 322-0959.
QUESTIONS
We know that you have a choice when it comes to your healthcare and we want to thank you for choosing us at Vanderbilt. If you have any questions or concerns about your test, please call us at (615) 322-0959. Thank you.
