Learn the Benefits of Electroencephalography (EEG) Examination

An electroencephalogram (EEG) is a diagnostic procedure used to record and analyze the electrical activity of the brain. EEG measures the pattern of electrical waves produced by the activity of nerve cells in the brain, and provides information about a person's brain function. The EEG process involves attaching electrodes connected to the patient's scalp. The electrodes record the brain's electrical activity by measuring the potential difference between the different electrodes. The electrodes are placed in specific areas along the scalp, which can vary depending on the purpose of the EEG examination.

Brain cells communicate with each other through electrical impulses at all times, even during sleep. This electrical activity will appear on the EEG recording as a wavy line. The function of the EEG is to detect differences in impulses that are signs of impaired brain function.

What is an EEG Test and Its Function?
Electroencephalography (EEG) is a type of examination to measure the electrical activity in your brain. This medical procedure is carried out by attaching sensors made of metal (electrodes) to the scalp. The sensor will record every electrical activity that occurs in the brain. The brain's electrical activity will appear in the form of waves on the EEG recording. Information from the results of this examination will help doctors diagnose and monitor brain health.

Conditions That Require EEG
EEG or electroencephalography tests are one of the main tools in diagnosing epilepsy. Based on a study published in the Biomedica journal, EEG examination results can help determine the level of recurrence of epilepsy symptoms in patients who regularly take medication.
In addition to epilepsy, this examination can also be used to detect abnormalities related to brain function, such as:
1. Brain tumors
2. Brain damage due to brain injury
3. Stroke
4. Brain dysfunction that can cause encephalopathy
5. Sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea
6. Brain inflammation (herpes encephalitis)
7. Alzheimer's disease

EEG examinations are also used to see brain activity during a coma or undergoing brain surgery procedures. Not only that, this examination can help determine the cause of the following symptoms:

• Confusion
• Fainting
• Memory loss
• Seizures

Here is some information that can be obtained from an EEG examination
a. Brain Waves: EEG records various brain wave patterns that appear during various states, such as waking up, sleeping, and various stages of sleep. These brain waves include delta, theta, alpha, beta, and gamma. Brain wave patterns can provide information about the activity and function of the brain that is occurring.
b. Seizures: EEG is often used in the diagnosis and monitoring of seizures. Abnormal electrical activity in the brain or irregular brain wave disturbances can indicate epileptic seizures or other seizure disorders.
c. Sleep Disorders: EEG is also used to study sleep patterns and sleep disorders. Brain wave patterns produced during sleep and different stages of sleep can provide information about sleep problems, such as sleep apnea, insomnia, or narcolepsy.
d. Cognitive and Neurological Disorders: EEG can help in the diagnosis and monitoring of cognitive and neurological disorders, such as epilepsy, migraines, stroke, brain tumors, and Alzheimer's disease. Abnormal brain wave patterns can indicate abnormalities or dysfunction in the brain.

The EEG procedure can be performed at RSU Hermina Pandanaran. The patient sits or lies comfortably during the examination, while electrodes are attached to the head. The EEG examination usually lasts for 30-60 minutes, but in some cases EEG monitoring can last for several days.

EEG is a non-invasive and painless procedure. Patients do not feel any sensation during the examination, although they are asked to remain calm and relaxed during the procedure to obtain accurate results.

The EEG results are analyzed by a doctor trained in neurology or a neurologist. The doctor will analyze the brain wave patterns and look for signs of disorders or abnormalities that may be present. These results help in the diagnosis of brain diseases or conditions, as well as planning the right treatment. It is important for Hermina Friends to consult with a specialist doctor at RSU Hermina Pandanaran to understand more about the preparations needed before undergoing an EEG, and what to expect during and after the examination.

References:

https://www.webmd.com/epilepsy/electroencephalogram-eeg

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/9656-electroencephalogram-eeg

Written and reviewed by: dr. Nuryanti, Sp.N