Did you know that an EEG can be used to diagnose a variety of conditions? It is one of the most common diagnostic tools for neurological disorders. While an EEG is a very useful tool, it is important to remember that it can’t diagnose all neurological conditions. For example, it can’t diagnose Alzheimer’s or Huntington’s; however, an EEG White Rock can diagnose other diseases.
What is an EEG?
An EEG, or electroencephalogram, is a test that records the electrical activity of your brain. This test is usually done in a hospital or clinic setting. During an EEG, sensors are attached to your head and record your brain waves. The doctor may also ask you to do specific tasks during the test, such as blinking or breathing deeply, to see how your brain responds.
What conditions can an EEG diagnose?
An EEG can be used to diagnose a variety of neurological conditions, including:
Epilepsy
If you or someone you know has epilepsy, you are probably familiar with the condition. Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes recurrent seizures. A seizure is a sudden change in brain activity that can cause various symptoms, such as convulsions, loss of consciousness, and muscle weakness. An EEG is often used to diagnose epilepsy because it can show abnormal brain activity that is associated with the condition. In some cases, an EEG may help predict when a seizure is likely to occur.
Sleep disorders
Sleep disorders are conditions that impact on the way you sleep. You may be diagnosed with a sleep disorder when you have trouble sleeping. Some common sleep disorders include sleep apnea, insomnia, and narcolepsy. An EEG can show brain activity changes associated with these conditions. For example, an EEG may show abnormal brain activity in people with narcolepsy.
Brain tumors
Brain tumors can be benign (not cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) (cancerous). When you go to the doctor for brain tumor symptoms, the doctor may order an EEG. An EEG can detect changes in brain activity associated with brain tumors. However, remember that an EEG cannot detect all types of brain tumors.
Head injuries
If you have had a head injury, an EEG may be ordered to check for any damage to your brain. When a head injury occurs, it can cause changes in brain activity. An EEG may show these changes, which can help the doctor determine the severity of the injury and plan treatment.
Dementia
Dementia is a condition that causes a decline in mental ability. This can include memory loss, problems with thinking and reasoning, and difficulty with everyday tasks. An EEG may be ordered to help diagnose dementia. The procedure can show brain activity changes associated with the condition.
What happens after an EEG?
After an EEG, the doctor will review and discuss the results with you. The doctor may order additional tests to confirm the diagnosis if the test shows abnormal brain activity. In some cases, treatment can be recommended.
If you think you may have a condition that could be diagnosed with an EEG, talk to your doctor at RHBNeuro.
