Electronystagmography (ENG)
An evaluation that assesses
the function of the balance system by recording and observing eye movements.
When assessing the function of
the balance system during the ENG, the audiologist will be recording and
observing eye movements. This is because the eyes and the balance organs are
connected, by looking at eye movements this will tell the audiologist how a
portion of the balance system is working. Many times when dizziness occurs
nystagmus will be present which is a clear measurable involuntary eye movement.
By observing and measuring the nystagmus the audiologist, along with physician
will be able to better determine what may or may not be causing the dizziness.
The results of the ENG are
obtained by having the patient wear goggles with a camera recording the
movements of the eye. When the patient can not wear goggles, then electrodes are
placed on the skin surrounding the eyes.
There are three portions to the
ENG:
- The patient is asked to visually
follow a moving dot on a light bar,
- then the patient is laid back by the
audiologist and then asked to turn their head or body in different positions,
- warm and cool air is then put into each
ear of the individual to assess the function of each inner ear independently.
The audiologist reports the
normal or abnormal eye movements during each portion of the ENG to the referring
physician.
There are many balance disorders that require clinical care by a physician or other healthcare professional. Listed in the directory below are some of the conditions, for which we have provided a brief overview.
If you cannot find the condition in which you are interested, please visit the
Otolaryngology Online Resources page in this Web site for an Internet/World Wide Web address that may contain additional information on that topic.
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