Dizziness often starts in the inner ear and so an Audiologist is the best first point of contact, ahead of seeing your GP.
Dix-Hallpike Manoeuvre
Dix-Hallpike Manoeuvre is a simple test to check for BPPV (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo) that is responsible for the most cases of sudden onset of dizziness or spinning. In this test the patient is moved from sitting to lying in a particular position and observed for signs of nystagmus (involuntary eye movement) of a particular type. The audiologist will then determine whether the dizziness is caused by crystals in the inner ear being displaced and if so in which part of the inner ear they are located.
Eye-Movement Tracking
Eye-Movement Tracking Test (Eyes Following Test) – Eye tracking using small cameras or goggles recording the eyes whilst following a test target or light source within the visual field. The test can identify whether there is a fault with the vestibular pathways of the brain.
Caloric Testing
Warm air or cool water is introduced into the ear canal, to stimulate the inner ear. This causes a movement in the eyes, and so the test can be compared between the two sides of the body.
Balance Platform Assessment
Balance tests: The patient stands on a moving platform. The audiologist changes aspects of the test such as reducing the amount of visual information and increasing the amount of information from the patient’s proprioceptors (sensory receptors found in muscles, tendons, and joints). The aim of the test is to assess the extent to which the brain is able to use information from the patient’s eyes, joints and vestibular system (inner ear). The types of vestibular disorder page details the variety of conditions that can be detected by this test.
Case History Review
For a good assessment of dizziness a Cheltenham audiology appointment would start with a case history. This would include when the dizziness occurs, for how long and what, if anything, can cause it to occur. Based on this information for the various tests to be used during the assessment.
Audiologist Cheltenham is covered in more detail at //www.imperialhearing.com/audiologist-near-me/cheltenham.
By reading about each of the assessments that may be conducted during your appointment, you will have a greater understanding of them and therefore feel less apprehensive as to why you are feeling unsteady.