Balance Problems

Electronystagmography (ENG)

There is an interaction between the eyes, eye muscles and the inner ear balance system. During an electronystagmography or ENG test, eye movements are recorded by electrodes placed around the eyes or by special video cameras fitted on goggles placed over the eyes. A computer analyzes the eye movements and provides information about the kind of messages the inner ear is sending to control the movement of the eyes through the central nervous system. This is currently the best way to check how well the inner ear balance mechanism works.

During the first part of the test, the patient stares at a spot or a light. Next, they watch a light moving on a bar. The third part of the test records eye movements as the patient lies on a bed in different positions (lying on right side, left side, etc.). During the final portion of the test, warm and/or cool water or air will be placed in the outer ear canals.