What is brain function testing?
We perform Evoke's Brain Function Testing - Click here to learn more
Examples of a few brain health issues and disorders include:
- Epilepsy
- Sleep disorders
- Parkison’s disease and other movement disorders
- Tremor disorders
- Gait disorders
- Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
- Concussion
- Depression and Anxiety
- Chronic Pain
When you come into Coopersburg Family Practice for brain function testing, you have an initial evaluation, during which your provider goes over your medical history and performs a neurological exam.
During your neurological exam, your provider checks your:
- Muscle strength
- Coordination and reflexes
- Alertness
- Pain response
Afterward, they examine your eyes for swelling of the optic nerve, and they may perform some basic memory tests.
If your initial evaluation indicates that you likely have a brain health issue, your provider orders more advanced neurological diagnostic testing.
What is an EEG?
An EEG, or electroencephalogram, is a safe and painless diagnostic test that Coopersburg Family Practice uses to track and record brain wave patterns and analyze electrical activity in your brain.
Brain cells talk to one another through electrical impulses, and by observing this activity, EEGs can help your provider detect potential issues in the brain.
To prepare you for your EEG, your provider measures you for a cap that holds 19 sensor sites where electrodes make contact with your scalp. Electrodes are small, flat discs that analyze your brain waves and send the results back to a computer as images of wavy lines with peaks and valleys.
Any abnormal patterns in these images can indicate a seizure or brain disorder. During the test, you lay down on your back on a bed or reclining chair and perform simple tasks, like breathing deeply, looking at a flashing light, reading, doing puzzles, or simply keeping your eyes closed.
Usually, an EEG test lasts between 45 and 90 minutes.
How should I prepare for an EEG?
If Coopersburg Family Practice schedules you to come in for an EEG, prepare yourself in several ways, including those related to:
Rest
Do your best to get a good night’s sleep before your test. If you need to, eat a light snack before you come in.
Hygiene
Before arriving, wash your hair twice consecutively, taking care to scrub your scalp, earlobes, and forehead. Then, dry it all the way and don’t braid it or put any product in it.
Substance consumption
Avoid stimulants, such as those found in coffee, tea, and cigarettes, the day of your test, and do not consume any drugs, herbs, or foods that can make you sleepy or relaxed.
Changes in your brain function can be scary, but the sooner you address them, the sooner you can begin managing them. Coopersburg Family Practice is ready to support you every step of the way. To schedule brain function testing, call the practice today.
