What is the eye movement test and why does the doctor order it?

The Electro-Nystagmus (ENG) test measures normal eye movement and rapid, involuntary eye movements called nystagmus, and examines the muscles that control eye movements. This test also checks how well the eyes, inner ears, and brain help maintain your balance and posture (such as when It changes from lying down to standing), through the "reassure yourself" series we learn about the eye movement test and why your doctor orders it, according to healthlinkbc.

The ENG test helps to know if there is damage or a problem with how the inner ear, the brain, or the nerves connecting them work, as these problems may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or a loss of balance.

Nystagmus occurs naturally when moving the head, but nystagmus without moving your head that does not disappear may be caused by conditions affecting the inner ear, the brain, or the nerves that connect it.

During the ENG test, electrodes are attached to the face close to the eyes to record eye movements. Movements are recorded on graph paper and then a series of recordings are made. The basic recordings are taken with your head at rest and while you move your head up, down, left and right, while you look at a moving object and after placing Warm or cold water (or air) inside your ears.

Why does a doctor order a test for EEG Nystagmus ENG?

 

Electro-nystagmus (ENG) is done to:

Discovering the location of the problem in the inner ear, the brain, or the nerves that connect to each other and that cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or loss of balance.

Look for any damage to the structures or nerves in the inner ear, the brain, or the nerves that connect to it.

Electro-nystagmus results (ENG)

 

The test results are normal if there are no abnormal involuntary eye movements during the test. Some nystagmus occurs naturally, when you turn your head and if the involuntary eye movements are of normal direction and intensity.

The test results are abnormal if there is nystagmus with head rotation that does not go away in a specified or normal period of time or if there are fewer eye movements or no eye movement during the test.

Abnormal results may be due to:

 

Detecting damage to nerves or structures in the ear or brain that affect balance.

You have Meniere’s disease, multiple sclerosis, labyrinthitis, a brain disease, or you have had a stroke.