Vestibular Exam: What It Is and Why It Matters

If you’ve ever experienced dizziness or vertigo, you know how disorienting and frustrating these symptoms can be. Luckily, there’s a test that can help identify the underlying cause of these problems: the vestibular exam.

The vestibular exam is a thorough evaluation of the vestibular system, a complex network of structures in the inner ear that control balance and spatial orientation. The exam is typically performed by an audiologist, an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialist), or a physical therapist specializing in vestibular therapy.

During a vestibular exam, the healthcare provider will first take a detailed medical history and ask about any symptoms you may be experiencing. They will then conduct a series of tests to assess the function of the vestibular system. These tests may include:

1. Electronystagmography (ENG): This test measures the movement of the eyes in response to different stimuli, such as changes in head position or the application of cold or warm air to the ear canal. Abnormal eye movements can indicate a problem with the vestibular system.

2. Videonystagmography (VNG): This is a newer and more advanced version of the ENG test that uses infrared cameras to track eye movements more accurately. It can also be used to assess the function of the visual and central nervous systems.

3. Rotary chair test: In this test, you sit in a rotating chair while wearing special goggles that track eye movements. The chair is rotated at different speeds and in different directions to stimulate the vestibular system. This test can help diagnose problems with the inner ear.

4. Caloric test: This test involves the application of cool or warm air to the ear canal to stimulate the inner ear. A healthy vestibular system will cause your eyes to move in response to this stimulus.

5. Posturography: This is a computerized test of balance that measures how your body responds to different sensory inputs, such as visual and proprioceptive (body position) cues.

Once the vestibular exam is complete, the healthcare provider will analyze the results and develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Treatment options may include physical therapy to improve balance and coordination, medication to manage dizziness or vertigo, or surgery to correct structural problems in the inner ear.

Overall, the vestibular exam is a crucial tool in the diagnosis and treatment of vestibular disorders. By identifying and treating these disorders early, healthcare providers can help their patients avoid long-term complications and improve their quality of life.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of dizziness or vertigo, don’t hesitate to talk to your healthcare provider about getting a vestibular exam. With the help of this test and the right treatment plan, you can get back to feeling like yourself again.

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