What Is an EEG and Why Is It Done?

Modern medical science for tracking electrical waves from billions of brain neurons and diagnosing neurological conditions.

What Is an EEG?

An EEG, or Electroencephalogram, is a simple and painless test. Neurons in our brain generate tiny electrical signals to communicate with each other. These signals are recorded by placing small metal discs (electrodes) on the scalp.

These signals are displayed as continuous wave patterns on a computer screen. Commonly known as “brain waves,” these patterns help neurologists analyze any electrical abnormalities in the brain.

Why Do Doctors Recommend an EEG?

Epilepsy and Seizures

An EEG is the most critical test for diagnosing epilepsy and determining the exact type and brain origin of sudden seizures.

Sleep Disorders

It is used to analyze the underlying causes of sleep disorders such as insomnia, sleepwalking (somnambulism), or sleep apnea (breathing difficulty during sleep).

Memory Loss and Brain Injury

An EEG helps evaluate electrical brain abnormalities caused by sudden confusion (encephalopathy), severe memory loss (dementia), stroke, or traumatic brain injury.

Preparation Before the Test

Keep Hair Clean and Dry

Wash your hair thoroughly with shampoo and dry it on the day of or the evening before the test. Do not use oil, hair gel, spray, or conditioner, as these interfere with electrode signals.

Avoid Caffeine and Tea or Coffee

Avoid tea, coffee, chocolate, cola, or energy drinks for at least 8 hours prior to the test. Caffeine can temporarily alter natural brain wave patterns and cause inaccurate readings.

Special Sleep Instructions (Sleep Deprived EEG)

Sometimes an EEG needs to be performed while asleep. In such cases, your doctor may advise you to sleep less or stay awake the night before so you can fall asleep naturally during the procedure.

Confirm Regular Medications With Your Doctor

If you routinely take anti-seizure or nerve medications, confirm with your doctor or technologist beforehand whether to take them on the day of the test.

Estimated Cost of EEG Test in Bangladesh

Test Name Government Hospital Private Diagnostic Center
Routine EEG (Standard 20–30 Minutes) ৳ 500 - ৳ 1,000 ৳ 1,500 - ৳ 2,500
Sleep Deprived EEG (Special Sleep-Deprived Test) ৳ 500 - ৳ 800 ৳ 2,000 - ৳ 3,000
Video EEG (1 Hour to Long-Term) ৳ 1,500 - ৳ 3,000 ৳ 5,000 - ৳ 6,000
Anesthesia Charges (Sedation Charges if Required) ৳ 500 - ৳ 1,000 ৳ 1,500 - ৳ 2,500

Brain Wave and Frequency Measurement

0.5 - 30

Normal Brain Wave Frequency (Hz)

How Do Brain Waves Work?

Our brain never stops working. Whether we are awake, thinking, or sleeping, brain cells continuously generate their own natural electrical signals or “brain waves.”

  • When Awake and Active: Brain wave speeds are fast (Beta Waves).
  • During Deep Sleep: These wave speeds become slow and restful (Delta Waves).

 

100% Safe and Painless Examination: An EEG test does not pass any electrical current through your body. It is a completely safe, side-effect-free procedure that only measures your brain’s natural electrical frequency to help neurologists evaluate your overall nerve health.

Do you have any questions?

An EEG is a safe, painless procedure that sends no electricity into the body; it simply measures your brain’s natural electrical activity. Follow your doctor’s guidance without hesitation or fear.

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