Electroencephalograms (EEGs) are sometimes called “brain wave” recordings and are used to detect abnormalities in the electrical activity of the brain. EEG is used to help diagnose the presence and type of seizure disorders, to look for causes of confusion and evaluate head injuries, tumors, infections, degenerative diseases and metabolic disturbances that affect the brain. It also is used to evaluate sleep disorders and to investigate periods of unconsciousness.