Healthsheet | Published February 16, 2009

Having an Electroencephalography (EEG)

Tips

Try to relax and remain still.
Avoid talking during the test.

You will sit in a reclining chair or lie down on an exam table in a softly lighted room. The technologist will measure certain points on your head. He or she will use a special pencil to mark the spots where electrodes will be placed on your scalp. Your scalp will be rubbed with a mild abrasive, and electrodes will be attached.

Woman lying back in chair in darkened room with electrodes on head. Healthcare provider is sitting on other side of wall looking at woman's test on monitor.

During the Test

You will be asked to do any of the following:

Relax, and open and close your eyes.
Breathe rapidly and deeply (hyperventilate) for a few minutes.
Sense a flashing light through your closed eyes.
Relax and go to sleep.

After Your Test

When your test is done, all of the electrodes will be removed. At home, wash your hair to remove any remaining glue, gel, or paste. You can get right back to your normal routine. If you stopped taking any medications before the test, ask your doctor when you can start taking them again. Your doctor will let you know when your test results are ready.