Brainwaves represent the electrical activity that emanates from electro-chemical processes in the brain. They are caused by the electrical potential in the brain cells and are not electrical currents or waves which are broadcasted by the brain as from a radio.
In an adult who is awake, there is usually an alpha or beta rhythm. This is a smooth rhythm with the two sides of the brain relatively similar. Medically we search for abnormal spikes of activity or unexpected rhythms that are not typical of normal waking states of mind. This may indicate early intoxication, infection (encephalitis), or metabolic disorders such as a threatening diabetic coma (diabetic ketoacidosis). After severe stress, trauma or infection we see a slowing down of brain rhythm, which may be part of a self-protective feedback measure. We have to remember, though, that the rhythmic activity of our brainwaves only shows that we are alive and what the broad tendencies in the brain are. It would be foolish to read them like a detailed set of personality or physiological directives.
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