EEG (Electroencephalogram)
The test is a neurophysioligic technique that measures electrical activity in the brain (and so is often referred to as a "brain wave test"). To measure the electrical activity, up to thirty-two electrodes are attached to the scalp (using an adhesive that permits easy, rapid removal). An EEG can take from 20 minutes to 1 hour to perform. During the test, you may be at times awake and at times asleep. We deliver the results of your test to your physician (usually a neurologist, neurophysiologist, or electroencephalographer).
Your doctor may request an EEG (electro-encephalogram) for any of several reasons, including:
- fainting spells
- behavioral disturbances
- learning or attention disorder
- development or language delay in a child
- cognitive disorders
- epilepsy
- pseudo-seizure
- brain tumors
- encephalopathy
- headache (acute and chronic)
If your doctor has requested an EEG, she/he wants to study normal and abnormal electrical activity in the brain at different states of mental activity (such as: alert, drowsy, asleep, between waking and sleeping, etc.).
Preparation
Your physician may ask you to be mildly sleep-deprived prior to the test (for example, you may be asked to sleep for only 4 hours prior to your appointment.
Authorization and Payment
We offer all of our services by appointment. Please bring with you a requisition signed by a physician licensed to practice in the province of Ontario. Without a valid requisition, you are required to pay for your test (or to reschedule for a later date).