Electroencephalogram

Electroencephalogram (EEG) is a non-invasive neurodiagnostic test that measures the electrical activity of the brain. It involves placing electrodes on the scalp to record the electrical impulses produced by the brain’s neurons.

EEG is used to:

• Diagnose and monitor epilepsy and seizures
• Investigate encephalitis, meningitis, and other brain infections
• Monitor brain activity in coma or brain death
• Diagnose and monitor sleep disorders
• Investigate cognitive disorders like Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease
• Monitor brain activity during surgery or other medical procedures

EEG is typically performed by a neurologist or electrophysiologist. The test is painless and non-invasive, and the results help healthcare professionals diagnose and treat various neurological conditions.

Note: While EEG is not directly related to dentistry, it can help diagnose conditions that may affect the brain’s ability to control oral functions like chewing, swallowing, and speaking. Dentists may work with neurologists or other specialists to address related issues.

Types of EEG:

• Routine EEG: Records brain activity over a short period (20-30 minutes).
• Sleep EEG: Records brain activity during sleep.
• Ambulatory EEG: Records brain activity over an extended period (24-72 hours) using a portable device.
• Video EEG: Records brain activity and simultaneous video footage to correlate brain activity with physical behavior.
• EEG with imaging techniques (e.g., EEG-fMRI): Combines EEG with imaging techniques like functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to map brain activity and structure.