A seizure, a stroke, or a brain tumor could affect normal brainwave patterns. Doctors use an EEG test (Electroencephalogram) to detect a loss of brainwave function. This type of test is often used to confirm a diagnosis.

The Preliminaries

Any medical condition that your doctor thinks may have contributed to compromised brain performance may require that you undergo an EEG test. This testing process is relatively safe for anyone who hasn't had any preexisting medical conditions. A doctor will attach electrodes to your scalp during the EEG testing process. If you use styling aids or have long hair, your doctor may advise you to wash your hair and wear it up on the day that you will receive the test.

Completing these tasks will ensure that your hair does not get in the way of the electrodes. The electrodes will be secured along your scalp. You should eat on the day of your test. This will guarantee that your blood sugar levels aren't lower than normal and contribute to inaccurate EEG test results. Your doctor may advise you to get a good night's sleep the night before the EEG test and to refrain from taking the prescription medications that you normally take. Other EEG tests require you to not sleep the night before, so check with your doctor to know what you should do.

The Testing Process

During your test, you will lie back comfortably. A doctor who will be monitoring the test will secure the electrodes. They will also monitor your breathing throughout the testing phase. you may be advised to keep your eyes open at the beginning of the testing process. Bright lights and other aids that may trigger a response from you may be used to check whether your brainwave activity increases or decreases.

There may be some instances in which the doctor directs you to close your eyes. You will not feel any pain while your brain patterns are being recorded. The electrodes will transfer your brain activity to a computer screen. The pattern that is depicted may resemble a lot of squiggly lines. At the end of the test, the electrodes will be disconnected.

The doctor who performed the analysis will look over the test results. If you will be consulting with your primary medical doctor too, the doctor who performed the test will share the test results with them. If you have a loss of brain activity, you may be referred to a neurologist. A neurologist may conduct further testing and treat the medical condition that you are ultimately diagnosed with.

To learn more about brain performance tests, contact a healthcare provider near you.