You might be wondering, why you should get a baseline videonystagmograph? It’s a fair question, especially if you’re feeling fine today. But balance issues often start quietly, long before obvious symptoms like dizziness or unsteadiness show up.
A baseline videonystagmograph (VNG) gives you a clear record of how your balance system is working right now. If anything changes later, you and your doctor will have real, objective data to catch problems early and keep you steady on your feet.
A simple test today could save you from bigger problems later. Keep reading to discover how a baseline VNG can protect your balance and give you peace of mind.
A baseline videonystagmograph, or VNG, is a painless test that records how your eyes move when you follow lights, change head positions, or respond to warm and cool air in your ears. These small, automatic eye movements are important because they tell doctors how well your inner ear balance system, brain, and eyes are working together.
When you get a baseline VNG, it means you are having the test while you are still healthy or before serious symptoms develop. It creates a personal record of how your balance system functions when everything is normal.
If you ever start feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or unsteady later on, your doctors can compare your new test results to your baseline. That comparison makes it much easier to spot any changes early, diagnose problems faster, and choose the proper treatment.
You might feel fine today, but balance problems often start quietly. Getting a baseline VNG now gives you an important advantage later. Here’s why it matters:
Many balance disorders, like benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) or vestibular neuritis, start with changes so small you might not even notice them. A baseline VNG can spot these issues early, sometimes before you even feel symptoms. Early detection means you can take action faster and prevent bigger problems down the road.
If you ever start feeling dizzy, unsteady, or lightheaded, doctors will need to figure out what’s causing it. Having a baseline VNG gives them something to compare against. Instead of guessing, they can see exactly what has changed and make a quicker, more accurate diagnosis.
Falls are a significant risk when balance problems are left undiagnosed. They can lead to serious injuries, especially as you get older. As you get to know the issues early, a baseline VNG helps protect your ability to stay active, mobile, and independent.
Even if your test shows everything is normal, knowing that you have a strong, healthy baseline brings real peace of mind. It’s reassuring to know that if something ever feels wrong in the future, you already have a clear starting point for answers.
Getting a baseline videonystagmograph is simple, safe, and takes about an hour. Knowing what happens during the test can help you feel more comfortable and prepared. Here’s a step-by-step look at what you can expect:
Before the test starts, your healthcare provider may review your medications and medical history. You’ll be asked to remove any glasses, contact lenses, or makeup around your eyes, as the goggles need a clear view to track your movements.
There’s no need to feel nervous. The test is non-invasive and designed to be as easy as possible for you.
You’ll wear a pair of lightweight video goggles. These goggles have a small camera inside that records your eye movements with precision. They are snug but comfortable, and you’ll be guided every step of the way.
The goggles allow the doctor to observe tiny eye movements that you wouldn’t even notice yourself.
While keeping your head still, you’ll watch moving lights or dots on a screen. You may be asked to follow them slowly or shift your gaze quickly between different points.
This part of the test measures how well your brain controls your eye movements and checks for signs of imbalance or neurological issues.
Next, your healthcare provider will guide you through a few simple movements, such as turning your head or lying back quickly. They’ll check to see how your eyes react when your position changes.
These movements help detect common balance disorders like benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), where tiny crystals in your inner ear shift out of place.
For the final part, small bursts of warm or cool air are gently blown into each ear, one at a time. This helps test each ear’s balance system separately. It’s normal to feel a little dizzy during this part — that’s actually what the test is supposed to trigger.
Any dizziness usually passes quickly, but it’s smart to plan for someone to drive you home just in case you feel a little unsteady afterward.
Your balance is something you rely on every day, often without even thinking about it. But small problems in your inner ear or brain can slowly build up before you notice anything wrong.
At Universal Neurological Care, we are committed to helping you stay steady, confident, and in control of your health.
Schedule your baseline VNG today and take an essential step toward protecting your independence and your safety.
No, the test is entirely painless. You might feel brief dizziness during parts of the exam, especially during caloric testing, but it usually fades quickly.
A baseline VNG is especially helpful for athletes, older adults, people with a history of concussions, migraines, or inner ear infections, and anyone concerned about balance or future dizziness.
In most cases, yes. However, if you feel dizzy after the test, it is a good idea to have someone drive you home just to be safe.
