Patient Frequently Asked Questions

How will an EEG help me?

An EEG test looks at electrical activity of the brain. It is the gold standard in diagnosing seizure activity. It is also commonly used to evaluate head trauma, brain infections, and other neurological disorders.

Will an EEG hurt?

An EEG test is a completely painless and safe procedure. Before the EEG recording begins, a special paste is used to secure small disc electrodes to the head. During the EEG, you won’t feel any type of tingling or sensation from the electrodes.

Once the EEG recording is completed, the electrodes are removed slowly using a damp cloth. If a longer than 2-hour EEG recording is requested, which is often referred to as continuous EEG (cEEG), the EEG electrodes are commonly secured using a special hair glue. Once the cEEG recording is complete, a special adhesive remover is used to take off the cEEG electrodes.

How long does an EEG/cEEG recording last for?

Typically, EEG recordings last between 20 minutes to 1 hour. Additionally, cEEG recordings may last up to 72 hours.

What does the brainwave activity look like on an EEG?

Each person has unique brain activity so EEG results can mean different things from person to person. Certain waveforms or activity on an EEG are normal, while others may be within normal limits, and some can be abnormal.

Common terms used for an EEG include spikes and sharp waves. Depending on if they are happening all the time or in certain areas of the brain, it could mean there is a possible area of seizure activity. A Physician that specializes in seizures will read the EEG recording and provide an official interpretation.

What do the results of an EEG mean?

An EEG detects the electrical activity of the brain and displays it on an EEG computer. If someone has a seizure during an EEG test, the change can be seen on the computer and the Reading Physician is notified.

Where can I find support groups?

You can visit the Epilepsy Foundation for more resources about EEG and other neurological testing: www.epilepsy.com/affiliates

I need an EEG, now what?

Please consult a doctor if you believe you need neurological testing, such as an EEG.

Next Gen Neuro partners with healthcare facilities across the U.S. to provide continuous & intermittent remote cEEG & EEG monitoring service solutions.