Ambulatory EEG for Adults
The consultant you have seen has sent a request for you to have an ambulatory EEG test in the Clinical Neurophysiology Department at Dorset County Hospital. Appointments occur on at least two consecutive days. If you cannot attend please telephone us on 01305 255255.
Patient information sheet – please complete and bring to your appointment
| Patient’s name: Address: Date of birth: Telephone number: GP: Known medical conditions: Known allergies: | Current medication Date of last event (if applicable): Note: Further information may be needed during the appointment including: – Your medical history – When the event (s) started – Description of event (s) – Frequency of event (s) |
| Next of Kin name: Partner / relative: (Specify) address: Telephone number: | Attached test description (below) has been read: YES/NO This leaflet gives information and advice relevant to the test. It is important that you read it before attending your appointment. |
| Escort details Name: Relationship (for example partner/relative): | Escorts We understand that you may wish to bring a family member/advocate to the appointment for support. We are happy to accommodate where appropriate, and will confirm that you are happy for that person to be present as we may need to discuss medical history. However In the interest of the test we only permit one additional person into the recording room. It is not advisable to bring children to the appointment. |
What is an ambulatory EEG?
It is a 24 to 48 hour recording of the brain’s naturally occurring electrical activity using wires on your head connected to a small recorder that you take home. It involves two or three trips to the hospital. At your first appointment the physiologist will discuss with you whether a 24 or 48 hour test will be most helpful for your particular symptoms.
First appointment (all tests)
Leads are attached to your head with special glue, then connected to a recorder worn in a shoulder bag or on a belt. Recording begins. Can be at least one and a half hours.
Second appointment (48hr test only)
Leads are checked, batteries changed and recording continues. Can be 30 – 45 minutes.
Last appointment (all tests)
Recording finishes and leads are removed. Can be 45 minutes.
What should I do before I come?
- Your hair should be freshly washed and dried, and free from any gel, oil or hairspray
- Try to wear clothes that unbutton at the front which are easier for you to take off at night
- Continue to take any prescribed medication unless you have been specifically told to stop
- Meals can be taken as usual
- Bring a hat if you like.
Will it hurt?
No, there is a little gentle rubbing during preparation but nothing to feel from the test itself. If leads have been on the skin for a prolonged period, the scalp may occasionally be a little tender afterwards.
What must I do during recording?
You will be given a diary to record your daily activities and any attacks or symptoms that occur. It is useful to have someone with you to write down details of attacks. Try to have as normal a day as possible.
Is there anything I cannot do?
- Do not touch the electrodes on your head
- Avoid getting the leads and recorder wet, so do not bathe, shower or swim
- Do not take part in sporting-type activities
- Do not chew gum, use an electric blanket or mobile phone (you may text).
Can I sleep with it on?
Yes, we will discuss this with you when you come.
How do you remove the leads afterwards?
We use a mild solvent called Mavidon to soften and remove the glue without irritating the skin.
Mavidon solvent washes out with shampoo or soap but will discolour or dissolve some plastic and painted materials such as plastic glasses and hearing aids. We suggest you take these precautions when having your leads removed:
- Do not touch your hair and then rub your eyes or touch any other items before you have washed your hair
- Wash your hair as soon as you return home afterwards.
Can I travel on public transport?
Yes, but have your appointment letter with you. Leads may not be fully hidden and due to current national security awareness you may need to tell transport staff you are having a medical test. On buses, show the letter to the driver. Train companies advise you to phone the local station beforehand so they can advise staff.
When will I get my results?
The consultant who referred you receives the results in one to three weeks.
Contact us
Please phone the department on 01305 255255 if you have any further questions.
About this leaflet
Author: Monica Freeman, Claire Bracey
Written: July 2022
Approved: July 2022
Review date: 2025
Edition: v1
If you have feedback regarding the accuracy of the information contained in this leaflet, or if you would like a list of references used to develop this leaflet, please email patientinformation.leaflets@dchft.nhs.uk
Print leaflet