What is the primary purpose of an EEG recording?

The primary purpose of an EEG recording is to measure electrical activity in the brain. EEG, or electroencephalogram, is a non-invasive technique that uses electrodes placed on the scalp to detect the electrical impulses produced by neuronal activity. It captures fluctuations in voltage that result from the collective activity of neurons, allowing clinicians to observe patterns of brain function.

This measurement is vital for various neurological assessments, including diagnosing conditions such as epilepsy, sleep disorders, and brain injuries. By analyzing the electrical patterns, healthcare providers can gain insights into brain functionality, identify abnormalities, and evaluate treatment efficacy.

In contrast, the visualization of blood flow in the brain is typically accomplished through imaging techniques like fMRI or PET scans, rather than through EEG. Cardiac activity is monitored with an EKG, which is designed to measure electrical signals in the heart. Assessing brain structure is generally performed using imaging methods like MRI or CT scans, which provide detailed anatomical information rather than functional data. Thus, the central focus of an EEG is its capacity to directly measure the brain's electrical activity, highlighting its importance in understanding neurological conditions.