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📌 Read below and fill out this form: PARTICIPATE IN THE STUDY

 

Your Complete Guide to EEG: What to Expect Before, During, and After Your Test

What is an EEG?

An Electroencephalogram (EEG) is a safe, painless, and non-invasive test used to record the electrical activity of your brain.
Your brain cells communicate with each other using tiny electrical signals called brainwaves. An EEG measures these brainwaves to help doctors and researchers understand how your brain is functioning.

During the test, small sensors called electrodes are placed on your scalp. These electrodes detect brain activity and send it to a computer for recording and analysis.
EEGs are commonly used in hospitals, research studies, and clinics to help investigate conditions like:

  • Epilepsy and seizures

  • Sleep disorders

  • Memory or attention problems

  • Head injuries

  • Brain function monitoring during surgery

What Happens During an EEG?

Here’s the step-by-step process so you know exactly what to expect:

  1. Arrival & Welcome – You’ll be greeted by a technician or researcher who will explain the procedure and answer any questions you have.

  2. Preparation – You’ll be seated in a comfortable chair or reclining position. The technician will measure your head and mark the electrode spots.

  3. Electrode Placement – Small discs (electrodes) are placed on your scalp using a gentle gel or paste to help them stick and pick up brain signals.

  4. Recording – You’ll be asked to relax while your brain’s electrical activity is recorded. This usually takes 30–60 minutes.

  5. Simple Tasks – At times, you might be asked to:

    • Open and close your eyes

    • Breathe deeply (hyperventilation)

    • Look at flashing lights (photostimulation)

      These tasks help see how your brain responds to different stimuli.

  6. Completion – The electrodes are removed, and your hair is gently cleaned.

  7. Afterwards – You can leave immediately and carry on with your day.

Important: The EEG does not deliver electricity to your head — it only records activity, so there is no pain and no risk of harm.

How to Prepare for Your EEG (Pre-Test Care)

A little preparation goes a long way in getting accurate results:

  • Avoid caffeine on the day of your EEG (coffee, tea, energy drinks, chocolate). Caffeine can alter brainwave patterns.

  • Wash your hair the night before or the morning of the test.

    • Don’t use conditioners, hair gels, sprays, or oils — they can interfere with electrode contact.

  • Get adequate sleep unless instructed to stay awake for a “sleep-deprived EEG.”

  • Eat normally before your appointment — low blood sugar can affect results.

  • Take your prescribed medication as usual unless your doctor says otherwise.

  • Wear comfortable clothing — avoid tight necklines that may interfere with electrode wires.

After Your EEG (Post-Test Care)

Once your EEG is complete, you can return to your normal activities straight away. Here’s what to expect:

  • Hair Cleaning – Some gel or paste may remain in your hair. It’s safe and washes out easily with shampoo.

  • No Side Effects – EEGs don’t cause headaches, dizziness, or memory issues.

  • Resume Normal Life – You can work, drive, eat, and exercise as usual.

  • Results Processing – Your EEG will be reviewed by a neurologist or research team. They’ll look for any unusual brainwave patterns and share results with your doctor or as part of the study follow-up.

Why Participate in an EEG Study?

Joining an EEG study is more than just a test — it’s a chance to contribute to the future of brain science.

Your participation can help:

  • Develop better treatments for headaches, epilepsy, and sleep disorders

  • Improve diagnosis of neurological conditions

  • Advance understanding of brain function in health and disease

Plus, you get:

  • A close-up look at how brain research works

  • The satisfaction of knowing you’re contributing to science and healthcare progress

FAQs About EEG

1. Is an EEG safe?
Yes — EEGs are completely safe. They only record brain activity and do not send any electrical current into your body.

2. Will it hurt?
No — there’s no pain involved. At most, you might feel cool gel on your scalp.

3. Can I eat before my EEG?
Yes — and you should. A balanced meal can help you feel relaxed during the test.

4. What if I have long hair?
That’s fine — just ensure it’s clean and free of products. You may want to bring a hair tie or cap for after the test.

 

Have Questions? We’re Here to Help!

📧 Email us at team@abhijeetsatani.com , +91 9188564233, and we’ll be happy to answer your questions before your EEG appointment.