EEG/Ambulatory EEG
Electroencephalography is a diagnostic test that detects brain waves. The test consists of attaching electrodes on the scalp of the patient and recording brain wave electrical activity. Brain waves are then analyzed for diagnostic purposes. If the test is performed in the office, it usually last 20 minutes and may include flashing of lights, heavy breathing or asking patient to relax.
EEG is utilized to detect seizures, explain episodes of shaking, passing out or staring and help diagnose confusions or dementia, concussion and others.
Sometimes ambulatory EEG is done to detect abnormalities that were undetectable in the office EEG. This requires that patient takes the attached EEG home so that brain waves can be detected during sleep and for longer periods of time.