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Comprehensive Vestibular Assessment in Tasmania

What is a Vestibular Assessment?

A vestibular assessment is a specialized diagnostic procedure used to evaluate the function of the inner ear and brain mechanisms responsible for maintaining balance and spatial orientation. If you experience persistent dizziness, vertigo, unsteadiness, or light headedness, a vestibular function test helps identify the root cause of your balance disorder so an effective management plan can be established. At Revive Hearing, our clinical audiologists provide comprehensive vestibular assessments for adults across Tasmania. Please note that a formal GP referral is mandatory if you intend to claim a Medicare rebate for your diagnostic balance and vestibular testing.

Symptoms That Require a Balance and Inner Ear Evaluation

You should consider booking a vestibular assessment if you frequently experience:

A distinct spinning sensation, even when you are completely still.

Close-up of an ear with sound wave graphics, representing advanced diagnostic hearing assessments at Revive Hearing.

Why Choose anIndependent Audiologistfor Balance Testing?

Clinically Backed Protocols:

Evaluation of your inner ear balance function using objective, state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment.

Clear Interpretation:

Expert analysis of your vestibular tracking data explained in plain, accessible language.

Comprehensive Reporting:

A detailed, written clinical report provided directly to your referring GP, ENT specialist, or neurologist.

Pathways to Relief:

Personalised recommendations tailored strictly to your triggers, whether that involves lifestyle modifications or targeted vestibular rehabilitation.

Our Advanced Vestibular Diagnostic Suite

Video Nystagmography (VNG)

The core component of deep balance testing. Using advanced infrared camera goggles, we track involuntary eye movements (nystagmus) to see how well your inner ear balance system and brain are communicating.

What it assesses: Spontaneous and positional eye tracking (including Dix-Hallpike maneuvers) to successfully differentiate between inner ear (peripheral) and brain (central) causes of dizziness.

Video Head Impulse Test (vHIT)

A fast, comfortable, and highly precise test evaluating the microscopic channels inside your ear that detect physical movement.

What it assesses: High-frequency vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) function across all six semicircular canals to pinpoint exactly which side is affected by conditions like vestibular neuritis.

Subjective Visual Vertical (SVV)

A specialized test tracking your brain’s spatial perception of gravity and alignment, controlled directly by the inner ear's otolith organs.

What it assesses: Gravity-sensing function, helping uncover the hidden source behind chronic, floating dizziness and postural instability.

What to Expect During Your Vestibular Function Test

Our advanced diagnostic process is non-invasive and systematically maps out your balance system. It includes:

1. Detailed Clinical Intake

A thorough review of your medical history, symptom triggers, and lifestyle impacts.

2. Oculomotor Evaluation

Tracking your eye movements using specialized technology to see how your inner ear and brain communicate.

3. Positional Testing

Observing how changes in head and body position affect your equilibrium and checking for conditions like BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo).

4. Postural and Balance Screening

Assessing your stability under various sensory conditions.

Patient Preparation Note: To ensure accurate diagnostic data, patients are advised to avoid alcohol, caffeine, and certain anti-dizziness medications for 48 hours prior to the appointment. Please confirm specific guidelines with our clinic when booking.

How to Prepare for Your Vestibular Assessment

Because our diagnostic equipment is highly sensitive to eye tracking and inner ear fluid dynamics, please follow these essential steps before your appointment:

  • Avoid Alcohol & Caffeine:

    Do not consume alcohol or caffeine for 24–48 hours before your test, as they can artificially alter eye movements and suppress inner ear responses.

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  • Check Your Medications:

    Specific medications (such as antihistamines, anti-nausea tablets, sedatives, or vestibular suppressants) can interfere with your results. Speak with your audiologist and GP about safely pausing these if medically permissible.

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  • No Eye Makeup:

    Please do not wear mascara, eyeliner, or eye shadow to your appointment. Makeup particles confuse the infrared cameras tracking your pupils.

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  • Eat Lightly:

    Enjoy a small, light meal 2–3 hours beforehand. Arriving completely empty-smached can amplify nausea during physical movement testing.

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  • Bring a Support Person & Allow Time:

    The assessment takes 60 to 90 minutes. Because testing can briefly provoke temporary lightheadedness, we highly recommend bringing a companion to drive you home safely.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Your hearing health is too important to ignore. A comprehensive hearing assessment is a powerful tool for detecting issues early, improving your quality of life, and protecting your long-term well-being. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms or simply want to stay proactive, investing in a thorough evaluation is a step toward better hearing and a brighter future.

Ready to regain your balance and confidence?

Don’t let persistent dizziness or vertigo dictate your lifestyle. Book a comprehensive, diagnostic vestibular assessment with our expert clinical team today. Reminder: A GP referral is required to claim your Medicare rebate.

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