EEG Tests Can Detect Seizures And Neurological Disorders

Electroencephalography, commonly referred to as an EEG, is a powerful diagnostic tool used to monitor and assess brain electrical activity. It is very useful in detecting epilepsy and neurological disorders that are not visible by other imaging methods. EEG tests are a valuable tool for neurologists to gain insight into brain functions and diagnose underlying conditions.

In this article, you will learn how EEGs are performed, how they detect seizures, and what their role is in diagnosing neurologic disorders.

What Is An EEG Test?

EEGs are a non-invasive test that records electrical activity in the brain using small, flat metal discs called electrodes. They are attached directly to the skin of the scalp. These electrodes are used to detect the small electrical charges created by brain activity. The test results are displayed as wave patterns on a computer screen or printed out for review.

Each of the four types of brain waves —alpha, beta, delta, and theta —has a specific frequency and amplitude. Abnormal patterns can be an indication of a potential brain problem.

EEG Seizure Detection

EEG provides the most accurate method for detecting seizures. Abnormal electrical bursts in the brain are characteristic of seizures. EEG recordings reveal distinct changes in brain wave patterns during a seizure. This is very useful for diagnosing chronic epilepsy, which is characterized by recurrent seizures.

EEG can detect:

Generalized seizures that affect both the left and right sides of the brain at once.
Focal seizure is a type of epilepsy that begins in a particular part of your brain.
Subclinical Seizures are seizures that may not show any obvious physical symptoms but disrupt brain activity.

In some cases, an EEG routine may not capture abnormal brain activity if no seizures are observed during testing. To remedy this situation, neurologists will recommend:

A sleep-deprived EEG, where patients are awakened to increase the chances of abnormalities being detected.
The patient can conduct an ambulatory EEG test while he or she is going about their daily life.
EEG video monitor is commonly used in hospitals for capturing both the electrical and physical aspects of a seizure.

EEG is used to diagnose neurological disorders

EEG tests help diagnose neurological and cognitive disorders, as well as seizures. These include

Lesions or brain tumours: EEG can detect disturbances in normal wave patterns caused by lesions.
Traumatic Head Injuries: EEG can determine brain regions that are affected by trauma.
Sleep disorders: Narcolepsy (sleep disorder), insomnia, or REM behaviour disorder.

EEG can be used to assess symptoms like blackouts or unexplained flinching. These symptoms are typically associated with a condition known as syncope. A temporary loss of awareness characterizes it. Neurologists order EEGs in cases where they suspect seizures or neurological disorders. They do this to differentiate between seizures and other causes of loss of awareness, such as syncope.

For those seeking more information about evaluation and treatment options related to this condition, https://www.southvalleyneurology.com/services/syncope offers helpful resources and expert insights.

EEG Results – Interpreting Them

Neurologists use EEGs to analyse brain wave patterns. They look at the frequency and amplitude. Normal EEGs display symmetrical and constant brain activity. Abnormal findings include:

Spikes-and-waves are often linked with epilepsy.
Slow wave activity can be a sign of brain injury.
A flat or inactive can occur when the brain is severely damaged or in a coma.

You should be aware that an EEG abnormality does not always mean a person is suffering from epilepsy. The test forms part of an overall diagnostic picture and is typically interpreted in conjunction with clinical history, symptoms, and other imaging tests.

EEG Testing Benefits

It is non-invasive and painless.
Affordable and relatively quick.
Can also be used on infants or elderly patients.
Real-Time Monitoring allows doctors, during long-term studies, to quickly observe and respond to abnormal activities.

Conclusion

EEG tests provide valuable information in the field. They help diagnose neurological disorders, detect seizures, and assess symptoms like syncope. EEGs are useful in both routine and advanced monitoring scenarios.

If you are experiencing unexplained symptoms such as fainting, seizures, or mental instability, it is important to seek the help of a neurologist and have an EEG performed. Better therapy and a more precise diagnosis may result from this.

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