Headaches, dizziness, loss of consciousness, sleep disorders - with such complaints, patients often go to the doctor. In some cases, a specialist may recommend undergoing electroencephalography (EEG). Yulia Vyacheslavovna Shepeleva, a doctor of functional diagnostics of the highest category of the National Hospital of the MC UDP of the Republic of Kazakhstan, tells what this study is, who needs it and how to prepare for it.
- Yulia Vyacheslavovna, what is an EEG and what is the purpose of this study?
- Electroencephalography, or EEG, is a safe and painless research method that allows you to evaluate the functioning of the brain. With the help of special sensors, we register its electrical activity. The information obtained helps the doctor identify possible disorders, clarify the diagnosis, and determine further treatment tactics.
— For what symptoms should the patient undergo an EEG?
- The study is prescribed by the attending physician in the presence of certain indications. Most often, these are headaches, dizziness, fainting spells, seizures, sleep disorders, consequences of traumatic brain injuries, as well as impaired memory or concentration. In addition, EEG is used to diagnose epilepsy and monitor the effectiveness of treatment of diseases of the nervous system.
- Many patients worry before the procedure. Is it painful?
— No, absolutely not. EEG is one of the most comfortable diagnostic procedures. During the study, the patient does not experience pain or discomfort. Sensors do not affect the body and do not pass electric current — they only read the natural activity of the brain.
— How is the research going?
— The patient is placed in a comfortable position, after which a special cap with electrodes is put on the head. During the study, it is important to remain calm and, if possible, not move. Sometimes we ask the patient to open and close their eyes, take a deep breath, or look at a blinking light. These functional tests help to more fully assess the functioning of the brain. On average, the procedure takes about 20-40 minutes.
— Do I need to prepare specifically for the EEG?
- Preparation is quite simple. Before the study, it is advisable to wash your hair and do not use hair styling products. If you don't have specific recommendations from your doctor, it's important to get a good night's sleep. On the day of the examination, it is advisable to give up energy drinks and limit the use of strong coffee and tea. You should also inform your doctor about the medications you are taking.
— Why is it important not to postpone the examination if it was prescribed by a doctor?
- Because timely diagnosis is the first step to effective treatment. EEG allows you to detect changes in the brain at an early stage, when many diseases are still successfully amenable to correction. The earlier the study is conducted, the faster the attending physician will be able to make an accurate diagnosis and choose the necessary treatment.
In the National Hospital MC UDP RK electroencephalography is carried out on modern equipment by doctors of functional diagnostics with extensive practical experience. The study is carried out as prescribed by a doctor in compliance with all applicable diagnostic standards, and the results obtained help determine the further tactics of the examination and treatment of the patient.
