Routine EEG

Routine EEG Testing in Drummoyne, Sydney

A routine EEG (electroencephalogram) is a painless, non-invasive diagnostic test that measures and records the electrical activity of your brain. At CURA Medical Specialists in Drummoyne, Sydney, our experienced neurologists and technicians use routine EEG as a first-line investigation for a wide range of neurological conditions.

The test typically takes 20 to 40 minutes and is performed in our comfortable clinic setting. It provides valuable information about brain function that helps our specialists make accurate diagnoses and develop effective treatment plans.

When Is a Routine EEG Recommended?

Our neurologists may recommend a routine EEG to investigate:

• Suspected seizures or epilepsy
• Unexplained episodes of loss of consciousness or fainting
• Episodes of confusion or altered awareness
• Suspected abnormal brain wave patterns
• Monitoring the effectiveness of anti-epileptic medication
• Evaluation of sleep disorders with neurological features
• Assessment following head injury or concussion
• Investigation of cognitive changes or memory concerns

What Happens During a Routine EEG?

Before the Test

• Wash your hair the night before or morning of the test — avoid conditioners, hair sprays, or styling products
• Continue taking your prescribed medications unless your neurologist advises otherwise
• Avoid caffeine on the day of the test
• Eat normally — low blood sugar can affect EEG results
• Bring a list of your current medications to your appointment

During the Test

1. Our technician will measure your head and mark small positions on your scalp with a washable pencil
2. Small metal disc electrodes are attached to your scalp using a water-soluble paste — this is completely painless
3. You will be asked to lie comfortably with your eyes closed for most of the recording
4. The technician may ask you to open and close your eyes at intervals, look at a flashing light (photic stimulation), or breathe deeply for a few minutes (hyperventilation) — these activation techniques can help reveal abnormal brain activity
5. The entire recording takes approximately 20 to 40 minutes

After the Test

• The electrodes are removed and the paste is easily washed out of your hair
• You can resume all normal activities immediately — there are no side effects
• Our neurologists will analyse the recording and provide a detailed report
• Results are typically discussed at a follow-up consultation with your specialist

Understanding Your Results

Our specialist neurologists carefully review the entire EEG recording, examining brain wave patterns for any abnormalities. The results help determine whether further testing is needed, such as an ambulatory EEG for extended monitoring or a sleep-deprived EEG for more detailed analysis.

It is important to note that a normal EEG does not always rule out epilepsy or other conditions. In some cases, abnormal brain activity may not occur during the short recording period, and your neurologist may recommend additional testing.

Routine EEG vs Other EEG Types

A routine EEG is typically the first EEG test performed. Depending on the results, your neurologist may recommend:

• Ambulatory EEG — a portable 3-day recording that monitors brain activity continuously while you go about your daily life, ideal for capturing intermittent events
• Sleep-deprived EEG — performed after a period of sleep deprivation to increase the chance of detecting abnormalities that may not appear on a routine EEG

Why Choose CURA Medical Specialists for Your Routine EEG

• Specialist neurologists with extensive experience in EEG interpretation
• State-of-the-art EEG recording equipment for accurate, reliable results
• Comfortable, patient-friendly clinic environment in Drummoyne
• Comprehensive diagnostic pathway — from routine EEG through to ambulatory and sleep-deprived EEG if needed
• Convenient location serving patients across Sydney and NSW
• Seamless coordination with your referring GP or specialist

Book Your Routine EEG

If you have been referred for an EEG or would like to discuss whether this test is appropriate for your symptoms, contact CURA Medical Specialists today. You can book online through HealthEngine or call our Drummoyne clinic directly.

PLEASE NOTE: This information is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with our qualified neurologists for personalised guidance about your neurological health.