What is (EEG) Electroencephalogram?

• An electroencephalogram (EEG) is a test that measures and records the electrical activity of your brain.
• EEG is the most useful and important test in confirming a diagnosis of epilepsy.
• EEG checks for problems associated with loss of consciousness.
• EEG helps determine if a person in a coma is brain-dead.

Before the procedure

• Please bring your insurance card and Emirates ID.
• Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment.
• First, you will meet with a Patient Access Representative (PAR) at the registration desk that will review your medical insurance card, Emirates ID and perform your clinic registration.
• You will then meet with a technician who will explain the procedure in detail, its duration, and also answer any questions you might have.
• All EEG procedure patients must be sleep deprived prior to their appointment. IMPORTANT NOTE: Do not sleep six to eight hours before testing in order to optimize sleep during your test.
• Bring a list of your medications with you to your appointment.

The day of the procedure

• The procedure takes 1 ½ - 2 hours from check-in to completion.
• Please do not consume caffeine at least 8 hours prior to your appointment. This includes all caffeinated beverages and smoking.
• Eat a regular diet before coming to your appointment.
• Take your regular medications as prescribed by your physician.
• Please refrain from putting any hair care products and make-up (e.g. hair gel, hairspray) prior to your procedure as these will interfere with the recordings.
• Only one family member is allowed into the procedure room while the test is being performed.
• No mobile phone usage is allowed during the test.
• Please be on time for your appointment, otherwise it will be rescheduled. 

Note: please notify the call center if you will be late for your appointment. The grace period is 15 minutes only.

Discharge instructions

• After the procedure, all wire leads will be removed.
• You will meet with a Patient Access Representative (PAR) at the registration desk who will review your follow-up appointment schedule.
• Once you return home, remove excess residue from your hair with a comb and oil, and wash with warm water and shampoo.
• Upon discharge, you can return to all your normal activities without restrictions.
• Results will be released by the HIMS (Hospital Information Management System), located on Level P1, after five working days. Results will be sent to the ordering physician. During your follow-up appointment, your physician will discuss with you the results with you in detail.

Expected side effects following EEG

• There are no side effects associated with this procedure.

If you have any questions or concerns, please call Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi at 800 8 CCAD (2223), extension 65819, Sunday through Thursday, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.