Have you ever experienced dizziness, vertigo, or unexplained balance issues? If so, your doctor may have recommended an ENG (Electronystagmography) test. This diagnosis procedure evaluates the functioning of your inner ear and its connection to the brain, helping audiologists to determine the main cause of your balance-related problems.
Here, in this post, we will have a detailed discussion on what ENG is, how it works, and the steps associated with this process. Read on for further insights.
What is the ENG Test and How It Works?
Electronystagmography (ENG) is a specialized test used to detect abnormal eye movements caused by inner ear dysfunctions, neurological disorders, or other balance-related conditions. This test measures involuntary eye movements that occur when the vestibular system is stimulated.
The vestibular system, which is located within the inner ear, plays a vital role in maintaining balance and spatial orientation. When this system fails to function properly, it can lead to dizziness, unsteadiness, and vertigo. An ENG test tracks the electrical activity of the eye muscles as they respond to different stimuli. By analyzing these responses, an audiologist can identify irregularities in vestibular function and detect potential causes of dizziness or imbalance.
Steps Involved in the ENG Test
The ENG test involves a series of assessments that are designed to evaluate how the eye reacts to special movements and stimuli. Here is what you can expect in an ENG test.
Preparation
Before starting the test, the audiologist will place small electrodes around your eyes to record electrical signals generated by eye movements. These electrodes are connected to a machine that captures and analyzes the data.
Oculomotor Tests
The audiologist will ask you to follow a moving object such as a light or a dot, with your eyes. This test will evaluate your ability to track motion and detect any abnormalities in your eye movements.
Positional Testing
Your doctor will guide you through different head and body positions to see if they trigger dizziness. This test helps determine if specific movements contribute to your symptoms.
Caloric Testing
Caloric testing is one of the most critical parts of the ENG test. This testing involves the introduction of warm and cool air into each ear canal. This process stimulates the inner ear causing temporary dizziness and nystagmus. The doctor will compare responses from both ears and assess whether one side of the vestibular system is weaker than the other.
Recording and Analysis
Throughout the ENG test, the machine records the eye movements and the data is analyzed to identify any abnormalities in the vestibular or neurological system.
Benefits of the ENG Test
The ENG test offers many benefits in diagnosing balance disorders and guiding the treatment process.
Offers Accurate Diagnosis
As it evaluates involuntary eye movements, ENG provides valuable insights into vestibular disorders, helping doctors figure out exact problems with the inner ear and the central nervous system.
Identifies Hidden Issues
This test identifies symptoms of balance issues that other tests may not be able to discover.
Guides Treatment Plans
By identifying the root cause of dizziness and imbalance, the ENG test guides to the right treatment process such as vestibular rehabilitation therapy, medication, or lifestyle modifications.
Non-Invasive and Painless Testing Procedure
Unlike some medical procedures, ENG is a non-invasive and painless process that does not involve any complex surgeries.
Final Thoughts
If you are dealing with unexplained dizziness, vertigo, or balance issues, an ENG test could be a crucial step to finding the root of your problem and choosing the right treatment procedure. By assessing your vestibular system and the movements of your eyes, this test will provide doctors with vital information that will enable them to address your symptoms effectively.
If you are looking to visit the best ENG Test Centre in Kolkata, you do not have to look further than Happy Ears. When you visit us, our expert audiologist will conduct a meticulous examination and apply the right treatment method for addressing your concerns. Contact us today for an appointment.
