How The Test Is Performed Each ear is tested separately. One teaspoon of cold water is gently instilled in the ear canal with a bulb syringe. At times, hot water may be used in addition to cold water. Use of both cold water and hot water makes the test more accurate. How The Test Will Feel There is minimal discomfort.
Some people find cold water in the ear uncomfortable.
Brief, but severe vertigo may occur during the test. The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. Normal Values Nystagmus should occur after instillation of 1 teaspoon of cold or hot water into the ear canal. Other tests may be required to confirm the diagnosis. If nystagmus does not occur until after 2 or more teaspoons of water are instilled, there may be some damage to the nerve of the inner ear.