๐Ÿง  Procedure ยท Apollomedics Lucknow

Paediatric EEG (Electroencephalography)

Performed and personally reported by Dr. Nishant Gopaal โ€” Apollomedics Lucknow

Book Appointment โ†’ ๐Ÿ“ž +91 77549 20632
About This Service

What is Paediatric EEG (Electroencephalography)?

An EEG (Electroencephalogram) is a non-invasive, painless test that records the electrical activity of the brain through small sensors (electrodes) placed on the scalp. It is the primary investigation for epilepsy and is also used to evaluate encephalopathy, sleep disorders, and certain neurological conditions. At Apollomedics Lucknow, paediatric EEGs are performed by trained technicians and personally reviewed and reported by Dr. Nishant Gopaal โ€” ensuring expert, condition-specific interpretation.

Indications

When is it Indicated?

โœ“Diagnosis and classification of epilepsy syndrome
โœ“Identifying seizure type (focal vs generalised)
โœ“Monitoring response to anti-epileptic treatment
โœ“Evaluating unexplained staring or absence spells
โœ“Assessment of encephalopathy
โœ“Pre-surgical epilepsy evaluation
โœ“Neonatal seizure evaluation
โœ“Sleep-related epilepsy (nocturnal EEG/ambulatory EEG)
What to Expect

The Procedure

1
Child arrives without special preparation (no fasting required for routine EEG)
2
Technician applies small electrode sensors to the scalp using gel โ€” painless and non-invasive
3
Recording takes 30โ€“45 minutes; child may be asked to breathe rapidly or watch a flashing light (activation procedures)
4
For sleep EEG, the child may be sleep-deprived the night before to facilitate drowsiness during recording
5
Results are reviewed and reported by Dr. Gopaal; a written report is provided usually within 24 hours
6
Results are explained at a follow-up consultation with specific clinical correlation
Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is EEG painful?

No. EEG is completely painless. The electrodes sit on the scalp surface and do not inject anything. The gel may feel slightly cool. Most children tolerate the procedure well.

Does a normal EEG mean my child does not have epilepsy?

Not necessarily. A single routine EEG is normal in 40โ€“50% of people with epilepsy. If epilepsy is clinically suspected, a normal EEG does not rule it out โ€” repeat EEG, sleep EEG, or prolonged video-EEG may be needed.

What should I tell my child about the EEG?

Explain that it is like wearing a swimming cap with sensors, there are no needles, and it will not hurt. Younger children may find it helpful to watch a video about EEG beforehand.

How do I prepare my child?

Wash hair thoroughly the night before (no oils or conditioner). For sleep EEG, keep the child awake 2โ€“3 hours past their normal bedtime. Bring a favourite toy, book or tablet to keep the child calm during setup.

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Medically authored by Dr. Nishant Gopaal Consultant Pediatric Neurologist & Head of CDC ยท Apollomedics Super Speciality Hospital, Lucknow
MD Pediatrics ยท FIPN ยท BPNA UK ยท ORCID: 0000-0002-8408-535X
Last reviewed: 2026-09-27