|
- Audiological Evaluation
Your physician has referred you for a comprehensive audiologic evaluation. This procedure lasts about 20-30 minutes and causes no ill-effects. This type of testing is completed in order to assess the function of the outer, middle, and inner ear structures, as well as the nerve for hearing and balance. The test is conducted in a sound treated room and you will be asked to respond to words and a variety of sounds in each ear.
Why Do I Need To Have This Test Done?
The inner ear has two parts. One is responsible for hearing, the other is critical for normal balance function. There are certain medical problems that can affect one, or both of these mechanisms. In addition, it is useful to know your hearing sensitivity in order to properly evaluate responses of other diagnostic procedures also included in this work-up. The purpose for this audiologic evaluation is to gain medical information regarding the status of your ear, and is not intended for the purpose of dispensing a hearing aid. Procedures within the audiologic evaluation are covered by Medicare and most private insurances when prescribed by a physician as part of a medical work-up.
- Auditory Brainstem Response Test
The Auditory Brainstem Response is used to evluate the function of the nerve for hearing and balance and critical structures in the brain. A moderately loud sound is introduced to each ear under earphones while we record brain wave activity by electrodes placed on the skin and scalp. The procedure takes anywhere from 1/2 hour to 1 hour to complete. During the procudure you will be allowed to recline in a comfortable chair and can even go to sleep. Unlike other testing that is typically done for balance disorders, this test is not affected by sedation or any type of medication. No voluntary responses are required. You will be asked to sit back and relax. This test is extremely sensitive to screen for any problem within the brain that could be affecting your balance.
- Videonystagmography
Videonystagmography (VNG) is used to evaluate inner ear balance centers, visual systems that contribute to balance, and stuctures within the brain that coordinate these activities. In reality, the VNG test battery consists of several different procedures used to evaluate the function of the ears, eyes and brain. Completion of the test requires 1 to 1 1/2 hours. Most people tolerate the test extremely well. It is not painful and should not leave any ill-effects. However, the test equipment is extremely sensitive and certain medications can cause inaccurate results. Therefore, it is very important that none of the following medications be taken 24 hours before the examination. Specifically, medications used to control dizziness symptoms including Meclizine or Antivert, prescription pain pills, Valium, tranqulilizers, or sleeping pills should be avoided. Other types of medications that could affect the test's outcome include strong cold pills, allergy pills and antihistamines. Alcoholic beveages should also be avoided 24 hours before the test.
If you take medications for diabetes, a heart condition, high blood pressure, or seizure disorders, take them as usual. Specific questions regarding medications should be referred to your physician.
During evaluation you will be asked to follow different visual objects, be moved into several different positions, and a series of ear irrigations will take place to evaluate the response from both the left and right balance centers of the ears. Although most people tolerate this procedure well, you may experience some dizziness and at worse, some nausea. Therefore, please do not eat a big meal prior to this evaluation. In addition, patients who wear prescription eyeglasses should bring them the day of the evaluation. Please do not wear any type of makeup. Wear warm and comfortable clothing and bring a sweater if you have a tendency to get chilly in medical offices.
- Computerized Dynamic Posturography
Each year over 8,00 people visit a doctor's office complaining of dizziness or balance problems. There are many conditions that may produce symptoms of dizziness, vertigo or balance disorders. Your doctor has prescribed computerized dynamic posturography (CDP) testing to better assess your particular balance problem. Maintaining one's balance is a very complex process. We depend on visual cues, the balance center within our ears and somatosensory information ( input from our legs, ankles, hips ) to maintain balance and walk appropriately. Computerized dynamic posturography was developed to evaluate the balance mechanisms and to determine possible areas of malfunction.
TESTING PROCEDURE
Computerized dynamic posturography is a test of your ability to maintain balance. It is a non-invasive procedure using sensors and computer monitoring to report shifts in body weight while the patient maintains balance in a variety of test conditions. During the test you will be asked to open or close your eyes for brief periods of time. While doing so, the platform and/or visual environment may or may not move. Your body will automatically respond to each test in an effort to maintain your balance. Should you lose your balance during any portion of the test, a harness will prevent you from falling. Your responses will automatically be recorded and analyzed for later review by your physician. This procedure is painless and takes about 30 minutes to complete.
HOW WILL I FEEL?
The vast majority of patients have no ill side effects from completing this test. You may experience some feelings of dizziness or imbalance during the test; however, this information is critical in helping us diagnose your problem.
HOW CAN THE TEST HELP ME?
This test examines your ability to use the senses required for balance and gait stability (your eyes, inner ear, along with feet and leg muscles). It also assesses your ability to perform effective movements to regain balance should you encounter an unstable standing environment in which you may be at risk for falling and helps you learn techniques to prevent the fall.
- Balance Questionaire
View/Print Page 1 of the Patient Questionaire
View/Print Page 2 of the Patient Questionaire
|
|