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Patient Information
Figure 2. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About
Ménière's Disease
Question Answer
What testing might be
ordered?
Your health care provider may have you get the following
testing :
• Audiogram:
is is a hearing test. An audiologist performs this test. It
measures the level of hearing from low to high frequency.
▶ No significant risk of testing.
▶ Test can be time consuming (about 30 minutes).
• Video- or Electro-nystagmogram (VNG or ENG):
This exam evaluates vestibular function of the ear, the
vestibular centers of the brain and the oculomotor system.
In a darkened room, eye movements are recorded as warm
and cool water or air is added into each ear canal. The test
evaluates how the eyes and ears coordinate with the brain.
▶ Risks of vertigo, nausea with testing.
▶ Tests are time consuming (about one hour).
▶ May cause discomfort with changes in body positions
• Electrocochleography (ECochG):
ECochG measures the electrical responses of the cochlea
and auditory nerve to electrical stimulation.
▶ Risks include discomfort in the ear.
• MRI of the Brain:
A type of imaging that uses magnetic energ y to view brain
and nerve anatomy. Intravenous contrast is often required
to improve the images. The machine contains powerful
magnets, so patients with stainless-steel or non-titanium
implants may not be able to have an MRI. Risks of MRI
include:
▶ Allerg y to contrast dye
▶ Discomfort with intravenous placement
▶ If you have a fear of smaller spaces, you may feel
uncomfortable going through the tunnel of the MRI
machine.
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