An EEG records your brain’s electrical activity to help doctors better understand seizures, sleep issues, and other conditions.
An electroencephalogram (EEG) is a non-invasive medical test that records the electrical activity of the brain. Brain cells communicate through electrical impulses, and an EEG detects these tiny electrical charges using small metal discs called electrodes that are placed on the scalp. These signals are then amplified and displayed for your doctor to review.
The team at AHN is here to help you understand the test by explaining what you need to know, how to prepare, and being with you every step of the way. Any questions you have will be answered, so you can feel informed and confident in your care and understand the process from start to finish.
Whether you’re being evaluated for seizures, sleep concerns, memory changes, or another neurological condition, AHN provides compassionate care and support throughout the entire process. We understand that medical tests can be daunting, and our team takes time to ensure you feel informed and confident at every step, looking at the full picture of your health.
EEGs are used to help diagnose and monitor various neurological conditions, including:
The EEG is a noninvasive test. Our goal is to support you and your family, answer your questions, and guide your care so you don't feel overwhelmed or concerned. EEG testing and monitoring can be performed in various settings, including outpatient clinics, emergency departments, and inpatient facilities. The duration of EEG testing can vary depending on your specific needs:
All EEG procedures are generally painless and safe, and we are here to ensure you have a clear understanding of what to expect.
An EEG is crucial in providing necessary information to your AHN care team about the brain’s electrical activity. This information is essential to help accurately diagnose, monitor, and guide treatment for a broad range of neurological conditions. The key benefits of an EEG are:
Getting an EEG test at AHN is far more than just a routine diagnostic test. We understand that behind every EEG is a patient with unique concerns and a complex health picture. Our commitment goes beyond simply conducting the procedure; we focus intensely on patient education and comfort and a coordinated, multidisciplinary interpretation of results. This comprehensive approach ensures that every EEG contributes meaningfully to personalized treatment planning, guiding you toward the most effective care for your neurological health. Our focus is on:
An electroencephalogram (EEG) is a versatile neurophysiological test, and there are different types that are used depending on the patient's needs. It's helpful to understand the different types available, tailored to individual diagnostic needs.
While most EEGs also include video monitoring to capture any movements or behaviors occurring during the recording of the brain's electrical activity—whether you are awake, drowsy, or asleep—the core methods vary.
These tests can be performed across various settings, including scheduled outpatient appointments, in the emergency department (ED), or for hospitalized patients. Here are the primary types of EEG tests:
Please note that longer EEG tests, such as continuous monitoring over several days, often take place on hospitalized patients, whereas ambulatory EEGs provide extended recording in a home environment.
Once your test is complete, your AHN team works with you to determine your diagnosis and establish your ongoing treatment plan. Your care will continue through follow-up care, monitoring, and patient support.
An electroencephalogram (EEG) is generally considered a safe and painless procedure with very few side effects. The electrodes used during an EEG only record brain activity; they do not produce any sensation or pose a risk of electric shock. However, there are a few minor considerations and rare occurrences.
While an EEG is generally very safe and non-invasive, some patients may experience minor, temporary side effects related to the procedure. These are typically mild and resolve quickly:
For individuals with epilepsy or a high risk for seizures, certain elements of an EEG are intentionally designed to stimulate brain activity and potentially cause a seizure, which aids in diagnosis. It's crucial to understand that these are very low risk for individuals without epilepsy, and even for those with epilepsy, these procedures are performed under controlled medical supervision. Risks include:
Your AHN care team will give you specific instructions, guidance, and will help you feel confident and ready for your EEG.
Preparing for an EEG is straightforward and helps ensure the best possible results. Whether your test is conducted in a hospital or an outpatient clinic, understanding the process will help you feel more comfortable and confident. Here are some general things to consider before your EEG:
Here’s what to expect:
After the test, the technologist will carefully remove the electrodes from your scalp, and any remaining conductive gel will be cleaned off. Your hair might feel a bit sticky from the gel, so you'll want to wash it thoroughly as soon as possible after leaving the clinic. You can immediately go home and resume your normal activities, including driving, working, or other daily tasks, unless you were given specific instructions due to sedation.
Your care team will then thoroughly review the EEG results, often in coordination with other specialists, to interpret the results in the context of your overall health. They will then talk with you about what the results mean for your diagnosis and treatment plan. If further care, additional testing, or specialist consultations are needed, AHN can help coordinate those next steps to ensure you receive comprehensive, integrated care.
The Joseph and Kathleen Guyaux Comprehensive Epilepsy Center is Designated as a Level 4 Epilepsy Center by the National Association of Epilepsy Centers (NAEC), the highest ranking possible, the location at Allegheny General hospital provides comprehensive epilepsy care, which includes EEG technology.
Questions before an EEG are common. AHN is here to help get you answers. Your care team can expand on these answers, so you can get the information you need to feel confident in the test.
An EEG, or Electroencephalogram, is a safe, non-invasive medical test that records the electrical activity of your brain. It measures the tiny electrical impulses that brain cells use to communicate, providing valuable insights into how your brain is functioning.
A routine EEG typically takes about 60 minutes from start to finish, including preparation and electrode removal, with the actual recording lasting about 20–40 minutes. However, some longer EEGs, such as ambulatory, at-home, or inpatient continuous EEG monitoring, can last several hours to multiple days. Your care team will inform you of the expected duration for your specific test.
An EEG tests for abnormalities in brain electrical activity that can be associated with various neurological conditions. It is commonly used to help diagnose and monitor conditions such as epilepsy and seizures, evaluate sleep disorders, and assess brain function in other neurological conditions like encephalopathy or dementia.
To schedule an appointment or learn more about services at the AHN neuroscience services, visit our neurodiagnostic testing page.
