When is an EEG needed?

Persistent headaches are not only uncomfortable but also a warning sign of abnormalities in brain activity. When headaches are persistent or severe, a thorough examination becomes more necessary than ever. One of the diagnostic methods often prescribed by doctors in this case is electroencephalography (EEG). So why is EEG important in finding the cause of persistent headaches? Let's find out!

1. What is EEG?

Electroencephalography (EEG) is a medical technique used to monitor and record the electrical activity of the brain. Small electrodes are placed on the scalp to collect electrical signals from the brain and convert them into data that doctors can use to analyze brain activity. This method is completely safe, non-invasive and painless for patients.

2. Why is it necessary to record an EEG for prolonged headaches?

Chronic headaches can have many different causes, from simple problems such as stress and lack of sleep to complex brain-related diseases. EEG recordings help to more accurately determine the cause of headaches, especially in cases related to neurological disorders.

Several serious causes can be detected through an EEG:

• Epilepsy: Persistent headaches can be a sign of seizure activity in the brain without obvious symptoms. An EEG can detect abnormalities in the brain's electrical activity early, thereby making a more accurate diagnosis of epilepsy.
• Sleep disorders: Headaches can be related to sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea. An EEG can monitor brain activity during sleep and pinpoint the exact cause.
• Brain tumors or brain lesions: Some tumors or brain lesions can cause persistent headaches. An EEG can help detect areas of the brain that are abnormally active, helping to guide diagnosis and treatment.

3. Benefits of EEG recording for prolonged headaches

Not only does an EEG help with accurate diagnosis, it also helps monitor treatment progress and adjust treatment regimens if necessary. Here are some of the key benefits of an EEG when you are experiencing persistent headaches:

• Early detection of neurological disorders: EEG recordings can detect the smallest changes in the brain's electrical activity, helping to identify disorders early that may not yet have obvious symptoms.
• Safe and painless: This is a non-invasive diagnostic method, safe and has no adverse effects on the body. You can be comfortable during the examination.
• Accurate diagnosis, effective treatment: The results from EEG recording help doctors make correct diagnoses and have more effective treatment regimens. Especially in cases of epilepsy, early detection helps control the disease better and minimize the risk of complications.

4. How does an EEG recording process work?

The EEG recording process is quite simple and quick. The patient will sit or lie comfortably in a quiet room. Small electrodes will be placed on the scalp to collect electrical signals from the brain. This process usually lasts about 30-60 minutes. In some cases, the doctor may ask the patient to record the EEG while sleeping to monitor brain activity during sleep.

5. When should you have an EEG?

If you experience the following symptoms along with a persistent headache, you should see a doctor and request an EEG for an accurate diagnosis:

• Headache of unknown cause, not relieved by painkillers.
• Headache accompanied by dizziness, nausea, or a feeling of loss of balance.
• Headaches occur frequently at night or early morning.
• History of epilepsy or neurological disease.
• Having trouble sleeping or waking up with a severe headache.

6. Conclusion

Persistent headaches can be a warning sign of many neurological health problems. Performing an EEG when experiencing headaches of unknown cause helps doctors make an accurate diagnosis, thereby having an effective and timely treatment regimen. Do not be subjective with your headaches, go to a neurologist for examination and necessary tests.