Sleep Deprived EEG for Adults
Your consultant has sent a request for you to have a sleep deprived EEG test in the Clinical Neurophysiology Department at Dorset County Hospital. 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. |
Please ensure you have read this information thoroughly. It is very important to understand the risks and benefits of a sleep deprived EEG, and we can only proceed with your consent.
What happens during the test?
The test is similar to a routine EEG (electroencephalogram) but takes a little longer, up to 90-120 minutes. While your head is measured, and leads are attached you only feel a little gentle rubbing. When the recording starts you will be asked to open and close your eyes several times. You do not feel anything at all. We may ask you to breathe deeply for three minutes, after this you are asked to keep your eyes closed, try to relax and sleep if you can. After relaxation/sleep has been obtained we may show you a flashing light at the end. A digital video is recorded for technical reasons and to aid interpretation of the EEG.
What are the benefits of a sleep-deprived EEG?
Going without sleep mildly stresses the brain and so recording the EEG after sleep deprivation may give added diagnostic information. Also, if you are able to fall asleep during the test, extra information may be gained from your brainwaves in sleep.
What are the risks of sleep deprivation?
There is a very slight risk of seizure from the sleep deprivation itself for some people. Performing the breathing exercise and flashing lights while sleep deprived carries a slightly higher risk than during the routine EEG, but these procedures are only offered where appropriate.
Why do you need my written consent?
It is important to confirm your agreement to the test before you stay up all night due to the small risk of triggering a seizure. You are also required to confirm that we have explained how and why we record and store the video.
So what do I do now?
You have already indicated your verbal consent to sleep deprivation. Now, please confirm this in writing by completing and returning the enclosed consent form either by the included envelope to Clinical Neurophysiology, Dorset County Hospital or scanning/take a picture and emailing to neurophysiology@dchft.nhs.uk (if emailing please bring the original paperwork with you). In case of short notice appointments, you could bring the completed consent form with you to your appointment.
What should I do the night before the test?
Please stay up for the whole night before the EEG. Try not to go to sleep at all. Avoid alcohol and drinks with caffeine but otherwise you can eat and drink as you like, including a normal breakfast, then:
- Please arrive with your hair freshly washed and dried, and free from all hair products such as gel, oils or hairspray. Bring a comb if you like
- Wear comfortable clothing for the appointment
- Do not drive yourself to this test – see below
- Continue to take any prescribed medication unless you have been specifically told to stop
- If you like you can bring a hat to wear home afterwards.
Can I drive?
No, it is not safe to drive because you will be too tired. Please make alternative arrangements to travel to and from hospital. This also applies to anyone coming with you whose sleep might also have been disrupted the night before.
What should I do after the test?
To minimise the risk of seizure following sleep deprivation you should go straight home and catch up on your sleep. Also, on the night before and on the day of the test you should not have any alcohol, drive a car, operate machinery, sign any legally binding documents, be responsible for young children, or lock the bathroom door.
If you have any concerns after the test, please seek advice from your consultant.
When will I get my results?
Results are sent to the consultant who referred you for the test. This usually takes two to three weeks.
Contact us
Please phone the department on 01305 255255 if you have any further questions.
About this leaflet
Author: 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
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