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Sleep Deprived Electroencephalography (EEG): Instructions

What is an EEG?                                            

 Your brain’s electrical activity changes every second.  An electroencephalography (EEG) test records a sample of electrical brain activity. During the procedure, electrodes   (small discs with wires) are placed on the scalp with conductive paste. The electrodes detect tiny electrical charges that result from activity.

 

Sleep Deprivation allows us to assess your brain when it is tired. Your doctor may also be looking for changes in your EEG as you become drowsy or fall asleep during the EEG.

 

A vital part of your Sleep Deprived EEG is a video recording of you during your test. The viewing and use of this video recording is limited to medical or teaching purposes. The recording is the property of NYU Langone Hospitals.

 

Instructions for Sleep Deprivation

  • Adult patients should go to bed at 1am and wake up at 5 am the morning before the Sleep Deprived EEG. 
  • Pediatric patients under the age of 16 should go to bed 2 hours later and wake 2 hours earlier.  
  • Stay awake until your appointment without stimulants. This means nothing with caffeine for example no tea, coffee or energy drinks. 
  • Eat your usual meals and take any needed medication before the test, unless i your doctor tells you otherwise.

How Do I Prepare for the EEG? 

  • Shampoo your hair before the appointment.
  • Do not use any gels or any other products on your hair. Make sure your hair is clean, without any hair styling products. Remove any braids or weaves.

What Are the Risks of the Test? 

  • The EEG has been used for many years and is considered a safe and painless procedure. The electrodes do not produce any electric current. They only record activity.
  • There may be risks depending upon your specific medical condition. Be sure to discuss any concerns with your doctor before the procedure.
  • We ask that you do not drive to or from your EEG. Sleep deprivation is known to decrease a driver’s ability to react quickly to dangerous situations.
  • If you can, bring a friend or relative to help you get to and from your test. We may ask that your friend or relative wait outside during the EEG.
  • You may have skin irritation or redness at the places where the electrodes were placed. This usually goes away within several hours.
  • When the test is over, the electrodes will be removed and the paste cleaned off. You may want to wash your hair when you get home to remove any remaining paste.

 

If you have questions, please call us during business hours at 646-558-0800.

 

© NYU Langone Health. All rights reserved. Reviewed for health literacy. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your health care provider's instructions.