EEG Specialist in New York

At NY Neurology Associates, our specialists can see how your brain responds to stimulation, such as flashing lights (photic stimulation), and identify irregular brain wave patterns that may point to underlying conditions. If you or a loved one has experienced seizures, unexplained symptoms, or abnormal EEG results, contact us at one of our offices in New York today to schedule a consultation.

Topic at a Glance

  • An EEG test records the electrical activity of your brain using electrodes to help diagnose brain conditions and seizure disorders.
  • Different types of EEGs, including routine EEG, ambulatory EEG, and video EEG monitoring, are used to evaluate brain wave patterns in various settings.
  • EEGs help diagnose epilepsy, sleep disorders, brain tumors, stroke, and other brain disorders, giving doctors valuable insights into your brain function.
  • At NY Neurology Associates in New York, our specialists can see how your brain responds to stimulation, such as flashing lights (photic stimulation), and identify irregular brain wave patterns that may point to underlying conditions.

What is an EEG?

EEG stands for electroencephalogram, a test used to evaluate and measure the electrical activity in the brain. EEGs use small discs called electrodes that are placed on the scalp. These electrodes pick up tiny electrical impulses in the brain and transmit them via wires to a machine that creates a graph depicting the activity.

When are EEGs used?

EEGs are used to diagnose an array of issues related to the brain, including:

  • epilepsy and other seizure disorders
  • brain tumors
  • encephalopathy (brain dysfunction)
  • encephalitis (brain inflammation)
  • stroke
  • dementia
  • brain injury
  • sleep disorders, including apnea

How is an EEG Performed?

EEGs are noninvasive and painless. Measurements of the skull are taken first to determine the optimal placement of the electrodes, and then the skin in these areas may be carefully cleaned of oils to enable the electrodes to adhere better. 

In some cases, the electrodes may be attached to a close-fitting cap instead of directly to the scalp. Then, the electrodes are connected to the EEG machine using a series of wires. EEGs may be conducted while the patient is awake or during sleep. 

During the test, patients may be asked to open and close their eyes, read, or perform other simple activities to measure the brain’s activity. EEGs performed on patients who are awake typically take about an hour.

What is an Ambulatory EEG?

EEGs are noninvasive and painless. Measurements of the skull are taken first to determine the optimal placement of the electrodes, and then the skin in these areas may be carefully cleaned of oils to enable the electrodes to adhere better. 

In some cases, the electrodes may be attached to a close-fitting cap instead of directly to the scalp. Then, the electrodes are connected to the EEG machine using a series of wires. EEGs may be conducted while the patient is awake or during sleep. 

During the test, patients may be asked to open and close their eyes, read, or perform other simple activities to measure the brain’s activity. EEGs performed on patients who are awake typically take about an hour.

What is a Video EEG?

Video EEGs use video monitoring performed at the same time as the EEG to “match” a person’s physical activity during the test. Video EEGs can be very useful in patients with seizures, including those with epilepsy. Video EEGs usually record sounds as well to determine if the patient makes any noises during a seizure or other event.

Take the Next Step in Understanding Your Brain Health

If you suspect you may have seizures, sleep issues, or other brain conditions, you can find answers through an EEG procedure. At NY Neurology Associates, we are here to help you understand your symptoms, interpret your test results, and create a personalized treatment plan.

Contact one of our offices in New York today to schedule your EEG test and take control of your brain health.

FAQs About an EEG

Here are some common questions about EEGs.

EEG stands for electroencephalogram, a test used to evaluate and measure the electrical activity in the brain.

EEGs are used to diagnose an array of issues related to the brain, including epilepsy and other seizure disorders, brain tumors, encephalopathy (brain dysfunction), encephalitis (brain inflammation), stroke, dementia, brain injury, and sleep disorders, including apnea.

During an EEG the electrodes may be attached to a close-fitting cap or directly to the scalp. Patients may be asked to open and close their eyes, read, or perform other simple activities to measure the brain’s activity. EEGs may be conducted while the patient is awake or during sleep.

Ambulatory EEGs are performed over a longer period of time, typically a day or more. The patient wears a small portable recording device that’s attached to the electrodes on the scalp. Patients will be asked to perform their regular routines and to keep a diary of their activities to help the physician identify patterns or issues. This enables doctors to gather information about the brain’s activity throughout daily routines and activities.

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