VNG Balance Test
VNG Balance Evaluations
Dizziness and Vertigo
Vertigo, dizziness, and balance problems can be life altering. For many people it can affect their ability to do even the simplest daily tasks. If you are experiencing vertigo or balance issues, your doctor may want to refer you for a VNG balance evaluation.
What is a VNG Balance Evaluation?
VNG stands for videonystagmography, which is a series of tests that evaluate the health of your inner ear and your central motor function. VNG testing can possibly uncover the root cause of your vertigo, dizziness or balance issues, and allow your doctor or audiologist to treat it appropriately and effectively.
What Tests Will Be Performed?
VNG testing consists of a variety of tests to uncover the root cause of your symptoms. Most VNG evaluations consist of four main tests:
- Ocular Mobility checks for your ability to follow visual targets. You will attempt to follow targets with your eyes while an object is jumping, moving slowly, or standing still. Inability to track objects properly could indicate central or neurological problems or possibly an issue with the vestibular system connecting to the brain.
- Optokinetic Nystagmus also checks for your ability to follow visual targets. During this test, you will watch a large image that is continuously moving, and will be asked to follow the movements. Similarly, this test will give clues to possible central or neurological problems or problems with the vestibular system.
- Positional Nystagmus will help to give an idea of the health of your inner ear system. You will be asked to move your head and body into different positions, checking for inappropriate eye movements in each position. If there is any fluid blockage in the inner ear, it could be the cause of vertigo or balance issues.
- Caloric Testing can determine if you have vestibular weakness in one or both ears by checking to see if your ears can detect sensations properly. Your eyes will be monitored while your inner ears are stimulated (one at a time) with warm or cold air.
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