Epilepsy is more common than most people think. In fact, around one in 26 people will develop epilepsy in their lifetime, according to the Epilepsy Foundation. In the United States alone, nearly one million people live with uncontrolled epilepsy that significantly impacts their daily lives.
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that affects millions of people and can cause seizures. These seizures occur due to sudden, abnormal electrical activity in the brain, which can cause a wide range of symptoms, from brief lapses in awareness to full-body convulsions.
Accurate diagnosis of epilepsy is crucial to receiving appropriate treatment, improving quality of life, and reducing the risk of complications. Timely and precise diagnosis also allows for early intervention, which can lead to better seizure control and, in some cases, prevent the progression of the disorder. The most common test for epilepsy is an electroencephalogram (EEG).
Read on to learn how EEGs diagnose epilepsy and where to find the best neurologist for seizure treatment in Los Angeles.
What is an EEG?
An electroencephalogram (EEG) is a non-invasive diagnostic tool that records electrical activity in the brain. It works by placing electrodes on the scalp to detect and measure the tiny electrical signals produced by brain cells. These signals are then amplified and recorded as wave patterns, which can be analyzed to identify abnormalities associated with various neurological conditions, including epilepsy.
There are several types of EEG tests:
- Routine EEG: A short-duration test usually conducted in a clinical setting.
- Ambulatory EEG: A portable EEG that records brain activity over an extended period, typically two to three days, as the patient goes about their daily activities.
- Video-EEG: Combines EEG recording with simultaneous video monitoring, often used for longer periods in a hospital setting to capture and correlate seizure events with brain activity.
The Role of EEG Testing in Epilepsy Diagnosis
EEG testing is a cornerstone in the diagnosis and management of epilepsy. This non-invasive neurological examination provides crucial insights into the brain's electrical activity — offering valuable information that helps healthcare professionals make accurate diagnoses and develop effective treatment plans.
By capturing and analyzing brain wave patterns, EEG testing serves multiple purposes in epilepsy care, including:
- Identifying specific patterns of electrical activity associated with epilepsy, such as spikes and sharp waves, even when no seizure activity is apparent.
- Helping clinicians classify the type of epilepsy and determine the appropriate treatment.
- Pinpointing the area of the brain where seizures originate. This is essential for treatment planning, especially if surgery is necessary for treatment.
- Distinguishing epilepsy from other conditions that may mimic seizures, such as psychogenic non-epileptic seizures or syncope.
EEG testing provides this critical information, enabling healthcare professionals to make informed decisions about epilepsy management and tailor treatment plans to individual patients.
Causes of Epilepsy
While some cases of epilepsy have no identifiable cause, many others can be traced to specific triggers or conditions. Some common causes of epilepsy include:
- Head injury: Trauma that leads to scar tissue in the brain
- Genetic factors: Inherited traits that may trigger certain types of seizures, like myoclonic seizures
- Brain tumors or stroke: Conditions that damage brain tissue
- Developmental disorders: Conditions present from birth
- Infections: These include meningitis or encephalitis, which affects the brain
- Metabolic disorders: Conditions that may be managed through treatments like the ketogenic diet
It's important to note that the point where a seizure starts in the brain can influence the type and severity of symptoms. Epilepsy centers play a vital role in diagnosing and treating complex cases. Neurologists who work in connection with epilepsy centers can identify the underlying cause and determine the most appropriate treatment approach to prevent seizures from conditioning — whether it's medication, surgery, or lifestyle modifications.
What to Expect During an EEG Test
Before your EEG test, your doctor will ask about your medical history, including any medical conditions or sleep disorders that may affect your test results. Blood tests and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be ordered to check for any health conditions that you may not be aware of.
When preparing for an EEG test, it is usually recommended that you wash your hair thoroughly without using conditioners or styling products. You’ll also need to inform your doctor about any medications you're taking and follow specific sleep and food intake instructions that your doctor or testing proctor gives you.
On the day of the test, wear comfortable clothing. During the procedure, electrodes will be attached to your scalp with a conductive gel. These electrodes will measure activity in different parts of your brain and detect the presence or absence of seizure activity. You'll be asked to lie down or sit comfortably, staying still and relaxed with your eyes closed.
The technician may ask you to perform simple tasks like breathing deeply or looking at flashing lights. Special techniques may be used, such as sleep deprivation, exposure to flashing lights, or breathing rapidly for a few minutes.
The duration of the test varies — most routine EEGs last 20 to 40 minutes, while ambulatory EEGs can take 24 to 72 hours. Video-EEG monitoring is usually conducted for several days. The frequency of testing depends on individual needs, with some patients requiring repeat tests for ongoing monitoring.
Where to Find the Best Neurologist for Epilepsy Testing in Los Angeles
With its ability to detect abnormal brain activity, EEG has become a valuable part of epilepsy management and understanding of seizure patterns. EEG continues to evolve as technology advances, offering more precise and comprehensive insights into neurological conditions.
If you're concerned about epilepsy or experiencing unexplained seizures, Dr. Danny Benmoshe and the team at Los Angeles Neurology are here to provide expert care and diagnosis. We prioritize patient-centered care, combining compassion with cutting-edge neurological expertise.
Dr. Benmoshe's commitment to staying at the forefront of neuroscience ensures that our patients receive the most up-to-date and effective diagnostic procedures and treatments. Our modern neurology approach means we listen carefully to each patient's concerns, provide thorough evaluations, and develop personalized treatment plans to improve quality of life and manage epilepsy effectively.
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