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Types of tests:
Your health care provider will decide which test you need.
EEG
- An EEG records activity in your brain. It can help identify seizures, unexplained episodes and other conditions affecting the brain.
- A technologist places small sensors on your scalp. The test takes about 60 to 90 minutes. You may need to sleep during the test.
24-hour EEG
- A 24-hour EEG records your brain activity for a full day. You will carry a small recorder and keep a diary of your symptoms and activities.
Visual response test
- This test checks how signals travel from your eyes to your brain. You will watch a checkerboard pattern on a screen while each eye is tested separately.
- Bring your glasses if you wear them. The test takes about 45 to 60 minutes.
Hearing response test
- This test checks how sound signals travel from your ears to your brain. You will listen to clicking sounds while each ear is tested separately.
- The test takes about 45 to 60 minutes.
Sensory response test
- This test checks how signals travel from the nerves in your arms or legs to your brain.
- A small electrical pulse is applied to your wrist or ankle. It may cause a brief muscle twitch.
Nerve conduction study
- This test checks how well your nerves are working. Small sensors are placed on your skin, and brief electrical pulses are applied to your nerves.
Electromyography (EMG)
This tests checks how well your muscles and nerves are working. A doctor places a thin, sterile needle into a muscle to record its activity.
Balance test
- This test checks whether your dizziness may be related to your balance system.
- You will follow a moving target with your eyes, change positions and have warm or cool water or air placed in your ears. The test should not hurt, but you may feel dizzy for a short time.
General Information on Brain and nerve tests (Clinical neurophysiology)
Referral Required?
Required
How to get a Referral
Ask your health-care provider if one of these tests may be right for you. If needed, they will send a referral to the clinical neurophysiology service. The clinic will contact you with appointment details.
Preparing for Your Visit
How you prepare depends on your test.
- EEG: You may be asked to sleep less before the test or take a mild sedative. Follow the instructions from your care team.
- Visual test: Bring your glasses if you wear them.
- Balance test: Ask the specialist who ordered the test if you need to stop any medications for 48 hours. Do not stop taking medication unless they tell you it is safe. Do not have alcohol or caffeine for 48 hours before the test. Do not wear mascara or eyeliner.
- 24-hour EEG: You will carry a small recorder and keep a diary of your symptoms.
Refer to the specific test preparation instructions.
What to Expect
- Small sticky sensors may be placed on your head, neck, back or skin. They record activity in your brain, nerves or muscles.
- Your test may use pictures, sounds, small electrical pulses or changes in position. A muscle test uses a thin, sterile needle.
- Most tests take 45 to 90 minutes. A 24-hour EEG records your brain activity for a full day.
- A balance test should not hurt, but you may feel dizzy for a short time. Arrange for someone to drive you home in case you are still dizzy after the test.
Finding Us
Muscle and nerve tests are available at: