What tests are done for vertigo?

Vertigo is a kinetic or positional illusion caused by the body’s impaired spatial orientation, commonly known as the sensation of spinning in the sky. If a patient feels vertigo and goes to the hospital, blood pressure and blood sugar are usually measured first to clarify whether the vertigo is caused by changes in blood pressure and low blood sugar. If blood pressure and blood sugar are normal, the following examinations are required: 1. The main otologic examination is performed, starting with external auditory canal examination, vestibular function examination, which mainly includes hot and cold water test, rotation test, and also nystagmography, hearing examination, etc. If vertigo is suspected to be caused by vestibular abnormalities, neurological examination, over-finger test, star tracing gait examination, as well as visual acuity and fundus examination can be performed. 2. If blood pressure and blood sugar are checked without problems, blood laboratory tests, such as blood routine and blood biochemical examination, should be performed to clearly diagnose vertigo caused by anemia, hyperlipidemia, electrolyte disorders, drug poisoning, etc. In addition, imaging and electrophysiological examinations, such as brain CT, CTA, MRI, DSA, electrocardiogram, etc., may be required to clarify whether the patient has intracranial tumors or cardiovascular diseases.