Skip to main content

Testing for Vertigo and Balance Disorder

Vertigo, Dizziness, Giddiness are common symptoms that are poorly understood by the patient as well as physicians.

It has been my experience that patients who suffer from a sudden episode of Vertigo reach the emergency unit of hospitals where they are admitted and subjected to a whole range of investigations, including a cardiac evaluation and an MRI of the brain. After a few days, the patient is discharged without reaching a conclusive diagnosis.

It is well known that sudden episodes of Vertigo that incapacitate a patient usually arise out of an Ear pathology.  The cause has to be determined.

For a patient suffering from Giddiness, a detailed history is very important -

  • when do the giddy spells happen, 
  • how long do they last,
  •  any accompanying symptoms like nausea, vomiting, headache, or visual disturbances,
  • what precipitates the attack - like turning in bed, going out in the hot sun, after a period of viral infection?  
  • what medicine do you take to make it better?

For patients in whom we have not reached a diagnosis, we need to test the Vestibular System to locate the level at which the breakdown has occurred. Maintenance of balance is such a complex and automatic activity that it takes a battery of tests to reach a diagnosis.

TESTS COMMONLY CARRIED OUT

Video Nystagmography (VNG)
Video Nystagmography (VNG)
Video Nystagmography (VNG) - evaluates central and peripheral vestibular system 
Craniocorography (CCG)
Craniocorography (CCG)

Craniocorography (CCG) - checks for Vestibulo- Spinal reflex - gait testing

Caloric Test- by air caloric method
Caloric Test- by air caloric method

Caloric Test- by air caloric method

Subjective Visual Vertical (SVV)
Subjective Visual Vertical (SVV)

Subjective Visual Vertical (SVV) - Checks the Otolith organ and looks for abnormalities in the vertical orientation.

Computerized Dynamic Visual Acuity  (DVA)
Computerized Dynamic Visual Acuity  (DVA)

Computerized Dynamic Visual Acuity  (DVA) - checks for integrity of the Vestibulo-Ocular reflex.

Once the tests are carried out a test report is created and a diagnosis is suggested.

Along with that comes medication recommendations, rehabilitative exercises, or manoeuvres.

At our Centre we make patients download an App through which the patient remains in touch with the treating team. It also helps to disseminate information regarding exercises by way of videos etc.

VNG test being done 
VNG test being done 
  • History taking and clinical examination continue to be the most important diagnostic tools
  • Normal test results do not rule out significant disease
  • No single test can evaluate all functions- a battery of tests is required
  • Test protocols must be strictly followed to get reliable results


Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Navigating Winter Health: A Comprehensive Guide for the Elderly

Image
As the winter season descends upon us, the risk of winter-related illnesses, especially among the elderly, becomes more pronounced. Understanding the causes and adopting preventive measures is crucial to ensure a healthy winter. The onset of winter often brings an increase in Upper Respiratory and Lower Respiratory tract infections, attributed to factors such as poor air quality, seasonal transitions, the emergence of winter viruses, and the chilling temperatures. The current scenario highlights a significant prevalence of these respiratory infections, with the elderly population, particularly those with underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, being more susceptible. Safeguarding against winter illnesses involves a combination of proactive steps: Vaccination: Ensure you have received your flu vaccine, providing added protection against prevalent winter viruses. Layered Clothing: Dressing warmly with layered clothing is essential. Pay attention to warm innerw
Read more

Turbinoplasty Surgery - explained by Dr. Rajesh Bhardwaj

Image
Turbinoplasty Surgery Turbinoplasty is a surgical procedure aimed at addressing nasal congestion and breathing difficulties caused by enlarged turbinates. The turbinates are bony structures covered in soft tissue located inside the nose, responsible for filtering, warming, and humidifying the air we breathe. When the turbinates become swollen due to allergies, chronic sinusitis, or other nasal conditions, it can lead to nasal obstruction and reduced airflow. Turbinoplasty involves the reduction or repositioning of the turbinates to improve nasal airflow and alleviate breathing problems. MedFirst ENT Centre, located in Delhi, India, offers top-quality turbinoplasty surgery performed by highly skilled ENT surgeon and their professional medical team. Turbinoplasty - Benefits and Risks Benefits of Turbinoplasty Surgery: Improved Breathing: Turbinoplasty can significantly enhance nasal airflow, leading to better breathing and reduced nasal congestion. Relief from Nasal Obstruction: Patients
Read more

Enlarged Adenoids

Image
Enlarged adenoids are common in children. The adenoids can become enlarged due to an infection or allergy. The adenoids are glands that sit behind the nose above the roof of the mouth. When they grow large, they can cause snoring and breathing problems. They also press upon the Eustachian Tube and cause middle ear problems. For more information please visit our blog ENT Doctor If you are looking for a Sr. ENT Specialist then please visit our Centre. Address - D 3/14, Vasant Vihar, Lane opposite, Vasant Vihar Club, Opp Shri Ram School, New Delhi, Delhi 110057. For an appointment - Please call at +919871150032.
Read more