Medically reviewed by Dr. Sarim Mir, board-certified neurologist at Mir Neurology.
A little preparation helps your EEG go smoothly and produces the clearest possible recording. Here’s a simple checklist covering your hair, sleep, medications, and what to bring — so you walk in ready and relaxed. If you’d also like an overview of the test itself, see our guide to what to expect during an EEG test.
Hair and scalp prep
Arrive with clean, dry hair. Skip conditioner, oils, gels, hairspray, and other styling products on the day of your test, since they can interfere with the sensors. Avoid braids or hair extensions that make sensor placement difficult, and remove hairpins before you arrive.
Sleep instructions (and sleep-deprived EEGs)
Follow whatever your neurologist tells you. For a standard EEG, sleep normally the night before. If you’re scheduled for a sleep-deprived EEG, you’ll be asked to stay awake for part or all of the night beforehand so the test can capture certain brain-wave patterns — arrange a ride to and from your appointment, since you may be drowsy.
Medications and caffeine
Take your usual medications unless your neurologist specifically tells you otherwise — do not stop seizure medication on your own. Avoid caffeine (coffee, tea, soda, energy drinks) on the day of the test, since it can affect the recording. Eat a normal meal beforehand unless you’ve been told otherwise.
What to bring
Bring your photo ID, insurance card, a list of current medications, and the name of anyone who witnessed your symptoms if that’s relevant. Wear comfortable clothing so you can relax during the recording, and leave valuables at home.
What to expect on the day — and after
The test is painless and usually takes under an hour. Afterward, you can return to normal activities, and any leftover paste washes out of your hair easily. If you had a sleep-deprived study, plan to rest once you’re home.
Scheduling your EEG in Hagerstown or Cumberland
Mir Neurology offers on-site EEG testing in Hagerstown and EEG testing in Cumberland, with results reviewed by our board-certified team. If your EEG is part of a seizure workup, you can also read about our epilepsy and seizure care. To schedule, book your EEG or call (301) 797-7600.
Frequently asked questions
Can I eat before an EEG?
Yes, eat a normal meal unless your neurologist tells you otherwise. Just avoid caffeine on the day of the test.
Should I wash my hair before an EEG?
Yes. Arrive with clean, dry hair and skip conditioner, oils, gels, and hairspray so the sensors make good contact.
Do I stop seizure medication before an EEG?
No — do not stop seizure medication on your own. Take your usual medications unless your neurologist specifically instructs otherwise.
What is a sleep-deprived EEG?
It’s an EEG done after staying awake for part or all of the night, which helps reveal certain brain-wave patterns. Arrange a ride since you may be drowsy.
Need to talk to a neurologist about this?
Mir Neurology offers same-week appointments in Hagerstown & Cumberland, MD. No referral needed for most plans.
