Electroencephalogram (EEG)

• The EEG is a record of what most people call "brain waves".

• EEG = electroencephalogram

The Test

• A complete test includes both waking and sleeping states.
• The EEG is also recorded while your child is resting with eyes closed and open, hyperventilating (deep breathing), and during photic stimulation (strobe light).

• All children are digitally videotaped during their EEG to correlate questionable episodes or behaviour(s) with brain activity.

Preparation for an EEG

• The patient must be sleep deprived the night before the EEG.
• A successful and complete EEG records both waking and sleep.

• Your child MUST be sleep deprived for the EEG.

• For an EEG, your child must:

  • Come awake to the test.
  • Fall asleep during the test.

• See Sleep Deprivation instructions.
• To learn about the test, see EEG Photobook (PDF)
• You can also print an EEG pamphlet (PDF)

Website updated December 2009.