Videonystagmography (VNG)

What Is VNG?

Videonystagmography (VNG) is a series of diagnostic tests that uses specialized infrared video goggles to record and analyze your eye movements. Because the vestibular system in your inner ears works closely with your eyes to help maintain balance and stabilize vision, these eye movements provide valuable information about how your balance system is functioning.

VNG testing helps our team identify patterns of vestibular dysfunction and determine whether your symptoms may be related to an inner ear or balance disorder.

Who May Benefit?

Your healthcare provider may recommend VNG testing if you experience:

• Dizziness or a spinning sensation (vertigo) lasting minutes, hours, or days
• Unsteadiness or balance difficulties
• Symptoms suggestive of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)
• Symptoms that may be associated with Ménière's disease
• Dizziness that may be related to vestibular neuritis or other vestibular conditions

What to Expect

VNG testing is performed in our office and is generally painless. During the evaluation, you will wear infrared video goggles while your audiologist guides you through a series of tests, which may include:

• Eye movement testing: Following moving and stationary visual targets while your eye movements are recorded.
• Positional testing: Moving your head and body into specific positions to evaluate symptoms and eye movements associated with certain vestibular disorders.
• Caloric testing: Receiving warm and cool air stimulation in each ear for approximately 60 seconds per stimulation to assess vestibular function on each side. This portion may temporarily cause dizziness or nausea. Breaks are provided between stimulations as needed for your comfort.

Your audiologist will explain each step and help you feel as comfortable as possible throughout the evaluation.

How to Prepare

Certain medications, foods, and beverages may affect your test results. Please review the VNG preparation instructions provided by our office before your appointment. You can find these instructions on our website or in the handout provided by our team.

If you have questions about your medications, please contact our office before testing. Do not stop taking any prescribed medication without first consulting your healthcare provider.

Because some portions of the evaluation may temporarily cause dizziness, you may wish to arrange for someone to drive you home after your appointment.

What Happens After Testing?

Following your evaluation, you will schedule a follow-up appointment with Dr. McElveen or Dr. Johnson to review your results and discuss the next steps in your care. Your results will help assess vestibular function and identify findings that may explain your symptoms. Depending on the results, additional testing, medical evaluation, or treatment may be recommended.