Balance Testing Explained
Balance depends on information from the inner ears, eyes, body sensation, brain, and muscles. Vestibular testing evaluates selected parts of this system; it does not provide one universal “balance score.”
Before the visit
You will be asked about the sensation, timing, triggers, falls, hearing symptoms, migraine features, health history, and medications. Follow the clinic’s instructions about medications, food, caffeine, alcohol, clothing, eye makeup, transportation, and hearing devices. Do not stop prescribed medication unless the ordering clinician instructs you.
Possible tests
Merit Hearing’s West Des Moines battery may include videonystagmography (VNG), caloric testing, vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (VEMP), electrocochleography (ECoG), positional assessment, and a hearing evaluation when needed. The exact selection depends on the referral question and clinical history. Rotary-chair and video head impulse testing (vHIT) are not listed as available Merit Hearing tests.
Why a test battery matters
Different tests examine different structures and reflexes. One abnormal result rarely names the entire disorder, and a normal result does not rule out every cause of dizziness. Audiologists interpret the pattern alongside history and coordinate with physicians, physical therapists, or other professionals when needed.
Merit Hearing availability
Vestibular, balance, and dizziness testing begins at Merit Hearing’s West Des Moines clinic in October 2026. Appointments may be scheduled now for October 2026 and beyond. A physician referral is required. Testing generally takes 90 to 120 minutes, depending partly on whether a hearing evaluation is also required.
Preparing for your vestibular or balance evaluation
- Do not eat for at least three hours before the appointment. Some balance tests may cause temporary dizziness or nausea. If you have diabetes, eat lightly as needed to maintain your blood sugar.
- Do not wear eye makeup, including mascara, eyeliner, or eye shadow. The equipment tracks eye movement, and eye makeup can interfere with accurate measurement. You may be asked to remove it before testing.
- Bring a driver or arrange transportation. Temporary dizziness or unsteadiness may last from minutes to hours after testing.
- Bring a complete list of your current medications.
- For 48 hours before testing, refrain from alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives or tranquilizers, sleeping medications, and anti-nausea medications such as meclizine or Dramamine.
Do not stop a prescribed medication unless the prescribing clinician or Merit Hearing has confirmed that it is safe and appropriate for you to do so. Contact the West Des Moines office before testing if you have questions about a medication or health condition.
Testing is generally covered by insurance but may be subject to the patient’s deductible, coinsurance, copay, network, authorization, and other plan rules. Coverage is verified when possible but is not guaranteed.
Frequently asked questions
Will balance testing make me dizzy?
Some procedures intentionally stimulate the balance system and may temporarily reproduce symptoms. Tell the clinician about severe sensitivity, mobility limitations, pregnancy, recent surgery, or other health concerns beforehand.
Should I stop medication before testing?
Only follow instructions from the testing clinic and prescribing clinician. Never stop a prescribed medication solely because a general website says to do so.
Does a normal test mean nothing is wrong?
No. It may mean the tested systems responded within expected limits. Migraine, cardiovascular, neurologic, visual, medication-related, functional, or intermittent causes may still require evaluation.
Is balance testing the same as vestibular therapy?
No. Testing evaluates function and helps guide the next step. Vestibular rehabilitation is treatment delivered by an appropriately trained clinician, often a physical therapist.
Do I need a referral?
Yes. Merit Hearing requires a physician referral for vestibular testing in West Des Moines.
How long does testing take?
Plan for approximately 90 to 120 minutes. The length depends on the selected test battery and whether a hearing evaluation is also needed.
Results and next steps
Findings are interpreted with the history and examination. They may suggest a peripheral vestibular pattern, point toward further medical evaluation, support vestibular therapy, or remain inconclusive. Normal results do not mean symptoms are imaginary.
Next step
Bring your medication list, relevant imaging or reports, and a concise symptom timeline.