Balance
Chronic balance problems and dizziness can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. Many individuals begin to avoid everyday activities due to fear of triggering symptoms such as unsteadiness, disorientation, light-headedness, swaying, or a spinning sensation known as vertigo, which may also be accompanied by nausea. Although dizziness and balance disorders can affect people of all ages, they are more frequently seen in older adults.
Diagnostic Tests for the Vestibular System
The vestibular system is a complex network that plays an important role in balance and spatial orientation. To determine the underlying cause of dizziness, a series of specialized tests is often required. These tests evaluate eye movements, head movements, hearing function, and other related systems to help identify where the problem may be occurring.
Videonystagmography (VNG) is one such test. It uses infrared video goggles to record eye movements. The test follows a similar multi-part process to assess how the vestibular system is functioning.