EEG Tests

Fast access to private electroencephalogram (EEG) testing with experienced neurophysiology specialists. No GP referral required.

An EEG is a painless, non-invasive test that records the electrical activity of your brain. It is commonly used to investigate seizures, blackouts, episodes of loss of consciousness and other neurological symptoms.

At Midland Health, your EEG is performed by an experienced electrophysiologist using modern equipment. Appointments are often available within days, helping you avoid long NHS waiting times.

If you have recently experienced a suspected seizure or blackout, you may also benefit from our First Seizure Clinic, which combines neurological assessment with diagnostic investigations where appropriate.

Routine and Sleep-Deprived EEG Testing

We offer both routine EEG and sleep-deprived EEG testing for adults and children, depending on your symptoms and clinical requirements.

A sleep-deprived EEG records the brain's electrical activity after a period of reduced sleep. Sleep deprivation can make certain changes in brain activity easier to detect and may provide additional information where epilepsy or a seizure disorder is being investigated.

Your clinician can advise whether a routine or sleep-deprived EEG is the most appropriate investigation for you.

Do I Need an EEG?

Your doctor may recommend an EEG if you're experiencing symptoms that could be related to abnormal electrical activity in the brain.

An EEG may be appropriate if you've experienced:

• A suspected seizure
• An unexplained blackout or collapse
• Episodes of loss of consciousness
• Confusion or staring spells
• Unusual movements or muscle jerks
• Possible epilepsy
• Symptoms that require neurological investigation

If you are looking for a comprehensive assessment following a first seizure, our First Seizure Clinic offers access to Consultant Neurologists together with the appropriate investigations.

If you're unsure whether an EEG is the right test, our team will be happy to advise.

What Is an EEG?

An electroencephalogram (EEG) records the natural electrical signals produced by your brain.

During the procedure, small sensors called electrodes are gently attached to your scalp using a soft gel or paste. These sensors detect your brain's electrical activity and display it as wave patterns that can be analysed.

The test is:

• Completely non-invasive
• Pain-free
• Does not use radiation
• Does not involve needles
• Does not deliver electrical shocks

The length of your appointment will depend on the type of EEG being performed. If your symptoms require further investigation, your consultant may also recommend additional neurological tests, such as an MRI scan, where clinically appropriate.

What Can an EEG Help Diagnose?

An EEG can provide valuable information when investigating neurological conditions, including:

• Epilepsy
• Seizure disorders
• Unexplained blackouts
• Loss of consciousness
• Certain sleep-related neurological conditions
• Abnormal brain activity

Although an EEG can identify abnormal electrical activity, it is only one part of the diagnostic process. If an EEG alone is not sufficient, further investigations or a Neurology Consultation may be recommended.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

Your appointment has been designed to be straightforward and comfortable.

Before your EEG

We'll explain the procedure and answer any questions you may have.

To help achieve the best recording, we recommend:

• Washing your hair before your appointment
• Avoiding hairspray, gels or styling products
• Taking your usual medication unless advised otherwise
• Arriving a few minutes before your appointment
• Bringing a loose-fitting hat, scarf or hair covering if you would like to cover your hair after the test

During your EEG

You'll be asked to sit or lie comfortably while electrodes are placed on your scalp.

During the recording you may be asked to:

• Relax with your eyes closed
• Open and close your eyes
• Breathe deeply
• Look at flashing lights

These activities allow the specialist to observe how your brain responds under different conditions.

After your EEG

Once the recording has finished, the electrodes will be removed. A harmless, water-based paste is used to attach the electrodes, and some may remain in your hair after the test.

You will need to wash your hair afterwards to fully remove the paste, so you may wish to bring a loose-fitting hat, scarf or other hair covering to wear on your way home.

There is no recovery time, and most people can return to their normal daily activities immediately.

There is no recovery time, and most people return to their normal daily activities immediately.

If you are having a sleep-deprived EEG

A sleep-deprived EEG requires you to have less sleep than usual before your appointment. You will receive specific preparation instructions from our team before your test.

Please follow these instructions carefully, as they are important for obtaining the most useful recording.

Pricing

Meet Your Seizure Clinic Team

Why Choose Midland Health?

Patients choose Midland Health because we offer:

• Fast access to EEG appointments
• Modern diagnostic equipment
• No GP referral required
• Transparent pricing
• Access to comprehensive neurological care should further investigations or treatment be required

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Visit Our Clinic

Our Francis Road clinic in Edgbaston, Birmingham is close to Five Ways train station, accessible by bus, tram, or train. If you're driving, patients can use the Broadway Plaza car park free of charge for up to 2 hours when their vehicle registration is validated at Midland Health reception.

No matter where you're coming from, we aim to make your journey to our clinic as smooth and convenient as possible so you can focus on getting the care you need.

Next Steps and Booking

If you've been advised to have an EEG, or you're experiencing seizures, blackouts or other neurological symptoms, our experienced team is here to help.

If you're ready to arrange an EEG, you can book directly with us. No GP referral is needed, and appointments are often available within days. 

If you're not sure whether this is right for you, you're welcome to call us on 0121 769 0999 to discuss how we can help.

FAQ