What to Expect During 72-Hour EEG Monitoring

Published 2/28/2025

For individuals experiencing seizures and other neurological issues, a 72-hour EEG offers useful insights that assist doctors in diagnosing or ruling out conditions.

An EEG, or electroencephalogram, measures the brain's activity via electrical signals from small electrodes placed on the scalp. 72-hour EEG monitoring is designed for patients with infrequent seizures. While a standard EGG test lasts for 20-30 minutes, 3-day testing covers an extended period, allowing for more time to capture epileptic behavior. Working with EEG monitoring companies like Neurotech, patients have the option to enhance their testing with video or can opt-in for in-home monitoring.

How Do You Prepare for A 72-Hour EEG?

Whether you're undergoing EEG monitoring services in a hospital setting or using a portable EEG system (aEEG), there are similar measures to take to prepare for the test. Following the steps below will ensure accurate EEG results and a smooth monitoring process:

1. Follow Doctor's Instructions - Make sure to follow your healthcare provider regarding medications, sleep, and fasting prior to the test. This may include lowering your medication intake to provoke seizures.
2. Sleep Deprivation - The doctors may ask you to limit sleep before EEG monitoring in order to provoke seizures.
3. Wash And Clean Your Hair - It's generally recommended to wash your hair the morning of the test to reduce oils or other hair products. These can interfere with electrode adhesion.
4. Wear Comfortable Clothes - Wear loose, comfortable clothes to last you the 72-hour EEG duration. If you're in a hospital setting, gowns may be provided.
5. Arrange for a Family Member to Stay with You - If you have a history of long seizures, it's best to have a family member or friend nearby who can alert medical staff if needed.
6. Bring Personal Items - Bring leisure items like books, magazines, or puzzles to keep you busy during 72-hour EEG monitoring.

What Not To Do Before 72-Hour EEG Monitoring?

There are a few things you should avoid before your 72-hour EEG monitoring. This will help make the process as smooth as possible. Some things have been mentioned in the preparation steps for EEG monitoring above, such as not using hair products and not sleeping more than advised. Aside from these steps, additional things to not do before a 72-hour EEG monitoring session include:

• Avoid eating or drinking anything containing caffeine for at least 8 hours before the test.
• Do not exercise or become too sweaty as moisture can loosen electrodes from your scalp.
• Do not tamper with the EEG equipment or the electrodes. This includes not scratching your head.
• Do not chew gum or tobacco as these activities show up in the data and could hinder accurate results.

What Happens During 72-Hour EEG Monitoring

72-hour EEG monitoring can take place in a hospital, outpatient center, or at home. If you're planning on using the ambulatory EEG approach, it's important to know what to expect when an EEG monitoring company like Neurotech sends its technician to your residence. After initial paperwork, the technician will set up the EEG monitoring equipment to secure the electrodes to your scalp. The process is the same for patients visiting hospitals. The EEG will then start recording your brain waves, and the data will be sent to doctors for analysis. Depending on your setting, battery replacement may be required for an extended duration.

What Happens After 72-Hour EEG Monitoring

After the EGG testing is completed, a technician will remove the electrodes, and you will be able to return to your normal routine. It's generally advised to wash your hair and scalp to remove the adhesive residue. Your doctor will prepare a detailed analysis of the recorded brain activity and will provide you with a diagnosis. This is when you should ask all of your questions and discuss any necessary treatment options.

Benefits of Remote 72-Hour EEG Monitoring

Many patients are taking advantage of ambulatory or remote services from trusted EEG monitoring companies like Neurotech for a variety of reasons. One major benefit of remote 72-hour EEG monitoring is the ability to test in the comfort of your home. Neurotech's in-home EEG setups are equipped with real-time monitoring and can include video as well. If issues arise, Neurotech's EEG technologists can access your EEG equipment remotely and dispatch someone if needed.

Why Patients and Hospitals Choose Neurotech for EGG Monitoring Services

Neurotech is the leading EEG monitoring company and is a top choice for hospitals and patients. Every EEG technologist is credentialed by the American Board of Registered Electroencephalographic Technologists (ABRET). With more than 10 years in business, Neurotech has experience in a variety of EEG monitoring services, including long-term studies with aEEG, vEEG, and cEEG. Talk with an EEG expert at Neurotech today for more information at 886-374-7648 or visit our contact page.