Electronystagmography (ENG) and Videonystamography (VNG) are used to diagnose issues with dizziness, vertigo and difficulty walking. The tests records the movements of the eyes to aid in diagnosing an issue. Typically performed in an office, ENG/VNG takes about an hour and is pain free.
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ENG and VNG tests are commonly used to find the cause of dizziness, vertigo, and balance problems. This article explains how these tests work, what to expect during the exam, and the types of conditions they can help diagnose.
If ongoing dizziness or balance issues are affecting your daily life, our team at Cayman Neurology Pain Management is here to help. Schedule an appointment for a comprehensive neurological evaluation in the Cayman Islands to determine whether ENG/VNG testing is right for you.
Electronystagmography (ENG) and videonystagmography (VNG) are diagnostic tests used to evaluate dizziness, vertigo, balance problems, and difficulty walking. They work by recording your eye movements, which are closely connected to the body’s balance system (vestibular system). These painless tests are usually performed in the office and typically take about an hour to complete.
ENG and VNG are performed together to help determine whether your symptoms are related to the inner ear, the vestibular nerve, or another neurological condition. ENG uses small electrodes placed on the skin to record electrical activity related to eye movements, while VNG uses infrared video goggles to track eye movements. Together, these tests help your neurologist evaluate how well your balance system is functioning.
The results of ENG and VNG testing, together with your medical history and physical examination, can help your neurologist diagnose a variety of conditions that affect balance and dizziness. These tests are especially useful for determining whether your symptoms are caused by an inner ear disorder or another condition affecting the central nervous system.
ENG/VNG testing may help diagnose the following:
Your doctor will provide specific instructions before the test. Common instructions include the following:
The ENG / VNG is typically done in three parts:
After the test, your neurologist will review the results, which are typically available within a few days. Most people can return to their normal activities immediately after testing.
After your ENG/VNG test, your neurologist will review the findings along with your symptoms, medical history, and physical examination. While the test can provide important information about how your balance system is functioning, it is only one part of the diagnostic process.
Your results may show whether your dizziness or balance problems are related to the inner ear, the nerves involved in balance, or another neurological condition. In some cases, the results may be normal, and your neurologist may recommend additional testing to better understand the cause of your symptoms.
Once your results have been reviewed, your neurologist will explain what they mean and discuss the next steps. Depending on the findings, this may include further evaluation, treatment recommendations, or a plan to help manage your symptoms and improve your balance.
ENG / VNG tests are very safe. You may experience some slight dizziness or nausea during the tests. During the VNG test, you may experience some mild discomfort wearing the goggles throughout the testing. Some people feel discomfort during the caloric test as warm or cold air is used to blow into your ear canal.
If dizziness, vertigo, or balance problems are interfering with your daily activities, an accurate diagnosis is the first step toward finding relief. ENG and VNG testing can provide valuable information about how your balance system is functioning and help identify the underlying cause of your symptoms.
At Cayman Neurology, we provide comprehensive neurological evaluations for patients experiencing dizziness, vertigo, and other balance disorders. Contact our office in the Cayman Islands today to schedule an appointment and learn whether ENG/VNG testing is appropriate for you.
Both tests evaluate balance by measuring eye movements. ENG uses small electrodes placed on the skin to record electrical activity, while VNG uses infrared video goggles to track eye movements. They are often performed together to provide a more complete evaluation.
Most ENG/VNG tests take about one hour to complete, although the exact length may vary depending on your symptoms and the number of tests your neurologist performs.
Some people experience temporary dizziness, nausea, or a spinning sensation during certain parts of the test, particularly the caloric test. These symptoms usually improve shortly after the testing is complete.
Your neurologist will provide instructions before your appointment. You may be asked to avoid eating for several hours before the test, avoid caffeine for 24 hours, remove contact lenses, and temporarily stop taking certain medications if advised by your doctor.
Your neurologist will review the test results together with your symptoms, medical history, and physical examination. The findings will help determine whether your symptoms are related to the inner ear, balance system, or another neurological condition.