Description: Electroencephalography (EEG) is a technique used to record the electrical activity of the brain. Through electrodes placed on the scalp, EEG measures voltage fluctuations resulting from neuronal activity. This technique is non-invasive and allows real-time information about brain function, making it a valuable tool in various areas of medicine and research. EEG is particularly useful for studying neurological disorders, as it provides data on patterns of brain activity that may be related to conditions such as epilepsy, sleep disorders, and brain injuries. Additionally, its ability to detect changes in brain activity in response to external stimuli makes it relevant in studies of cognition and neuroscience. Electroencephalography has also found applications in the field of brain-computer interfaces, where its use for controlling devices through brain signals is being explored, opening new possibilities in the interface between humans and machines.
History: Electroencephalography was developed in 1924 by German psychiatrist Hans Berger, who was the first to record human brain waves. His initial work was ignored, but in the 1930s, the technique began to gain recognition, especially in the field of neurology. Over the years, EEG has evolved with technological advancements, such as equipment miniaturization and the development of software for data analysis, allowing its use in various clinical and research applications.
Uses: Electroencephalography is primarily used in the diagnosis and monitoring of neurological disorders, such as epilepsy, where it helps identify and classify types of seizures. It is also applied in sleep studies to assess disorders like insomnia and sleep apnea. In the research field, EEG is used to study cognitive processes such as attention, memory, and perception. Additionally, its use in brain-computer interfaces is being investigated, where EEG signals can enable control of devices through thought.
Examples: A practical example of the use of electroencephalography is in the treatment of epilepsy, where doctors use EEG to monitor patients’ brain activity and adjust their treatment. Another example is in sleep research, where it is used to study sleep phases and associated disorders. In the field of brain-computer interfaces, systems are being developed that allow users to control wheelchairs or prosthetic devices through EEG signals, facilitating mobility for people with disabilities.
