Dizziness & Balance Assessments
Dizziness and balance issues can significantly affect quality of life and may indicate underlying health conditions. We offer comprehensive assessments to diagnose the causes of these symptoms.
Key Tests in Dizziness and Balance Assessment
Bedside Vestibular Evaluation
This preliminary assessment is performed in the audiologist’s office. It involves a series of head and eye movement tests that help identify signs of vestibular dysfunction.
Procedure
The audiologist observes eye movements, head coordination, and other responses while the patient engages in specific positioning or movement tasks.
Purpose
To quickly assess whether vestibular dysfunction may be contributing to dizziness and balance issues.
Dix-Hallpike and Epley Manoeuvre
These manoeuvres are critical in diagnosing and treating benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), the most common cause of vertigo.
Dix-Hallpike Manoeuvre
Used to trigger and identify the specific type of vertigo associated with BPPV.
Procedure
The audiologist observes eye movements, head coordination, and other responses while the patient engages in specific positioning or movement tasks.
Epley Manoeuvre
Once BPPV is confirmed, this manoeuvre can be used to treat it.
Procedure
Similar to the Dix-Hallpike but includes additional movements to reposition the dislodged crystals in the inner ear that cause vertigo.
Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potentials (VEMPs)
VEMPs are a diagnostic tool used to assess the function of the otolith organs (saccule and utricle) in the inner ear and the inferior and superior vestibular nerve.
Procedure
This test measures the muscular responses to sounds in the ears. Electrodes placed on the neck and under the eyes record these responses.
Purpose
To determine if there is damage or dysfunction in the vestibular pathway that might be causing dizziness or balance disorders.
Electrocochleography (EcoG)
EcoG is primarily used to diagnose Ménière’s disease and other related disorders.
Procedure
Electrodes are placed on the earlobes or scalp to measure the electrical potentials generated in the inner ear in response to sound stimulation.
Purpose
It helps detect abnormal fluid pressure in the inner ear, which is often associated with Ménière’s disease.
Video Head Impulse Test (vHIT)
The vHIT is a modern test that assesses the function of the semicircular canals, which are part of the vestibular system.
Procedure
A high-speed camera records the eye movements as the head is quickly turned to either side.
Purpose
To test the reflex that stabilizes the gaze during rapid head movements, indicating how well the vestibular-ocular reflex (VOR) is functioning.
Each of these tests plays a vital role in diagnosing the specific causes of dizziness and balance disorders. By accurately identifying the underlying issues, our audiologists can tailor effective treatment plans that address individual patient needs. For further information or to schedule an assessment, please contact Katherine Mills Audiology. We are dedicated to helping you achieve optimal balance and improve your overall health and well-being.
