Quick Answer
EEG records brain electrical activity and helps evaluate seizures and epilepsy classification. Not every headache or memory concern needs an EEG.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav • NMC 8029 • Kathmandu Neurology Clinic & Cognitive Center
An electroencephalogram (EEG) records the brain's electrical activity through small electrodes placed on the scalp. It is primarily used to evaluate seizures and epilepsy, but it has specific roles in other neurological conditions as well.
EEG is most valuable when there is a clinical suspicion of seizures. It captures abnormal electrical patterns —— such as spike-and-wave discharges —— that correlate with epilepsy. A normal EEG does not rule out epilepsy, because seizures may not occur during the recording. Conversely, an abnormal EEG in someone without seizures may have no clinical significance.
Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav — consultant neurologist & headache specialist at Kathmandu Neurology Clinic & Cognitive Center provides evidence-based evaluation for epilepsy.
Preparation for EEG is simple: wash hair without conditioner on the day of testing, avoid caffeine for 24 hours beforehand, and continue prescribed medications unless specifically instructed otherwise. The test takes 20 to 60 minutes for a routine recording. Sleep deprivation EEG or prolonged (ambulatory) EEG may be ordered when standard recording is inconclusive.
EEG is not a test for headache, memory loss, or dizziness in isolation. These symptoms are evaluated through history and examination first. EEG is ordered when the clinical picture suggests seizures or when classification of a known epilepsy syndrome will change management.
Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav orders EEG judiciously at Kathmandu Neurology Clinic (Durbar Marg, Opposite of Yak & Yeti Hotel) —— when the result will influence diagnosis or treatment, not as a routine screen. NMC registration: 8029.
Results are interpreted alongside clinical context. An abnormal EEG requires correlation with symptoms, examination, and sometimes imaging before conclusions are drawn.
This article is educational and does not replace individual medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
Answers reviewed by Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav • MBBS, MD (Internal Medicine), FICN (Neurology), FCNV, FIHM • NMC 8029
Not necessarily; a single unprovoked seizure needs careful assessment before a diagnosis of epilepsy is made.
No; seizures vary widely. Some involve jerking (generalized or focal), while others present as staring spells, automatisms, or behavioral change with no apparent movement.
Not necessarily. A single unprovoked seizure needs full assessment before diagnosing epilepsy. Provoked seizures have different implications.
Protect from injury, do not put objects in mouth, time the event, turn recovery position after jerking, call emergency if >5 minutes or injury.
No. A single unprovoked seizure is not epilepsy — epilepsy requires recurrence risk or syndrome criteria (ILAE 2014). Evaluation includes witness/video history, EEG ideally within 48 hours, and MRI when focal. Dr. Jitendra counsels on sleep, alcohol, adherence and driving per local rules, and medication only when risk …
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References & Review
Reviewed by Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav • Last reviewed: 2026-09-04
- International Classification of Headache Disorders, 3rd edition (ICHD-3).
- Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine — Neurology sections.
- American Academy of Neurology guidelines for selected conditions (where applicable).
Content is educational and aligns with standard medical references; individual evaluation may vary. External links provide context and do not imply endorsement.