What to Expect During an EEG and How Doctors Can Make Patients More Comfortable

According to Johns Hopkins, an Electroencephalogram (EEG) is a test that detects abnormalities in a patient’s brain waves, or in the electrical activity of their brain. During an EEG, electrodes are pasted onto the patient’s scalp. These are small metal disks with thin wires that detect tiny electrical charges resulting from brain cell activity. The charges are amplified and appear as a graph on a computer screen, which the physician then interprets or “reads” to come to a conclusion or plan next steps.

What to Expect During an Electroencephalogram

More detailed information is available, and patients should always follow their own physician’s instructions, but usually the actual EEG process is like this:

1. 1. You’ll be asked to relax in a reclining chair or lie on a bed.
2. 2. Between 16 and 25 electrodes will be attached to your scalp with a special paste, or a cap with the electrodes will be used.
3. 3. You’ll be asked to close your eyes, relax, and be still.
4. 4. Once the recording begins, you’ll need to remain still throughout the test. Your provider may monitor you through a window in an adjoining room to watch for any movements that can cause an inaccurate reading, such as swallowing or blinking. The recording may be stopped periodically to let you rest or reposition yourself.
5. 5. After your provider does the initial recording while you’re at rest, they may test you with various stimuli to make brain wave activity that doesn’t show up while you’re resting. For example, you may be asked to breathe deeply and rapidly for 3 minutes. Or you may be exposed to a bright flashing light.

There may be other steps to prepare the day before or morning of; again, the safest course of action is to talk to your physician so you know what to do and what to expect.

That said, EEG studies are generally done by an EEG technician. It may take 45 minutes to 2 hours. If you’re being evaluated for a sleep disorder, the EEG may be done while you are asleep. If you need to be monitored for a longer period of time, you may also be admitted to the hospital for prolonged EEG (24-hour EEG) monitoring. In cases where prolonged inpatient monitoring isn’t possible, your provider may consider doing an ambulatory EEG.

Why Might Patients Need an EEG?

Typically, an EEG is used by doctors to rule out or diagnose conditions in patients. They can help evaluate several types of brain disorders. For example, when epilepsy is present, seizure activity will appear as rapid spiking waves on the EEG.

This test, usually performed by a trained medical tech as an out-patient procedure in a specialist’s office (like a neurologist), can also be used to diagnose other disorders that affect brain activity. These may include Alzheimer’s disease, certain psychoses, and narcolepsy.

An EEG may also be used to determine the overall electrical activity of the brain. For example, it may be used to evaluate trauma, drug intoxication, or the extent of brain damage in a person who is in a coma.

While EEGs are quite helpful in determining conditions, they aren’t ordered unless patients present signs that indicate possible neurological issues. For this reason alone, an EEG can be a stressful experience for patients. The process and length of the test can compound unpleasant feelings and worry.

So what can providers do to make patients more comfortable?

How Doctors Can Help Patients Feel More Comfortable

Physicians can take several steps to make patients more comfortable before, during, and after EEG tests. Before the EEG test, it’s crucial to provide clear information about the procedure, its purpose, and what the patient can expect in simple terms. Offering written materials or videos can further enhance understanding. It’s important to encourage patients to ask questions and address any concerns they may have. Providing clear pre-test instructions regarding medication, sleep, and other preparations, such as advising on hair care, helps patients feel more prepared. Allowing patients to bring comfort items like a favorite blanket or pillow can also ease their anxiety.

During the EEG test, creating a comfortable environment is key. Physicians should ensure the testing room is quiet, comfortable, and has appropriate lighting. Having a friendly and approachable technician present can significantly ease patient anxiety. Explaining each step of the procedure as it happens helps patients feel more informed and less apprehensive. Ensuring the patient’s physical comfort by carefully positioning them and using gentle techniques when applying electrodes further enhances their experience. Offering breaks if the test is long or if the patient becomes uncomfortable demonstrates sensitivity to their needs.

After the EEG test, providing post-test care instructions is essential. Physicians should inform patients about what to expect after the test, including potential side effects or sensations. Discussing the next steps and when patients can expect to receive their results helps manage expectations and reduces uncertainty. Being available to answer questions or address concerns that arise post-test provides additional support. Finally, offering reassurance about the safety and importance of the test helps patients feel more confident in their healthcare journey. By implementing these measures, physicians can ensure that patients feel more at ease and have a positive experience throughout the EEG testing process.

Good News, More Good News, and Even MORE Good News

Good news: The test itself doesn’t cause any discomfort. The electrodes record activity but don’t produce any sensation. More good news: There is no risk of getting an electric shock. However, the paste used to adhere the electrodes to the skin or scalp can be irritating for some people, especially those with sensitive skin or allergies. Also, the removal of the markers can cause skin irritation from necessary friction. The biggest cause of discomfort during the test, however, might be the chair that the patient has to sit in — completely still, for a good chunk of time.

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