Medically reviewed by Dr. Sarim Mir, board-certified neurologist at Mir Neurology.
If your neurologist has ordered an EEG, it’s natural to wonder what the test involves and whether it will be uncomfortable. The good news: an EEG (electroencephalogram) is painless, non-invasive, and one of the most useful tools in neurology. Here’s exactly what an EEG is, what happens during the test, how to prepare, and what your results mean — with on-site testing available in both Hagerstown and Cumberland.
What is an EEG test, and what does it measure?
An EEG records the electrical activity of your brain through small sensors placed on your scalp. Your brain cells communicate using tiny electrical signals, and an EEG captures those patterns as waves. It doesn’t send anything into your body — it only listens. This makes it a safe, comfortable way for your neurologist to see how your brain is functioning in real time.
Why your neurologist ordered an EEG
EEGs help evaluate a range of concerns — most commonly seizures and epilepsy, but also unexplained spells, episodes of confusion, certain sleep problems, and other changes in brain activity. Ordering an EEG doesn’t mean something is seriously wrong; it’s a careful step to gather information and guide the right care. If your EEG is part of evaluating seizures, you can learn more about our epilepsy and seizure care.
Step by step: what happens during the EEG procedure
When you arrive, a technician measures your scalp and attaches small sensors (electrodes) using a washable paste. There are no needles and no electric shocks. You’ll relax in a comfortable position, often with your eyes closed. During the recording you may be asked to breathe deeply for a couple of minutes or look at a flashing light — these gentle activities help bring out different brain-wave patterns. The recording itself usually takes 20 to 60 minutes.
Does an EEG hurt or have side effects?
No. An EEG is painless and carries no known risks. The sensors only rest on the surface of your skin, and the paste washes out of your hair easily afterward. There are no lingering side effects, and unless you’ve had a special sleep-deprived study, you can drive yourself home and return to your normal day.
How to prepare for your EEG
A little preparation gives the clearest recording. Arrive with clean, dry hair and skip oils, gels, and hairspray that day. Take your usual medications unless your neurologist tells you otherwise — never stop seizure medication on your own. Avoid caffeine on the day of the test. If you’ve been scheduled for a sleep-deprived EEG, you’ll get specific instructions about staying awake beforehand, and you should arrange a ride.
Getting your EEG results
An EEG produces a detailed recording that your neurologist reviews and interprets alongside your symptoms and history. An “abnormal” reading doesn’t automatically mean a serious diagnosis — it’s one piece of a bigger picture. Your neurologist will explain what your results mean for you specifically and discuss any next steps.
Scheduling an EEG in Hagerstown or Cumberland
Mir Neurology offers on-site EEG testing at both our EEG testing in Hagerstown and EEG testing in Cumberland locations, with results reviewed by our board-certified team. To get started, book an EEG appointment or call (301) 797-7600.
Frequently asked questions
How long does an EEG take?
A standard EEG recording usually takes 20 to 60 minutes, plus a little time at the start for placing the sensors.
Is an EEG painful?
No. An EEG is completely painless. The sensors rest on the surface of your scalp — there are no needles and no electric shocks.
Can I drive home after an EEG?
For a standard EEG, yes. If you had a sleep-deprived EEG, you may be drowsy, so arrange a ride.
Do I stop my medications before an EEG?
Take your usual medications unless your neurologist specifically tells you otherwise. Never stop seizure medication on your own.
Need to talk to a neurologist about this?
Mir Neurology offers same-week appointments in Hagerstown & Cumberland, MD. No referral needed for most plans.
