Taking the step to book a vestibular assessment can feel like a big deal, especially if you’ve been living with dizziness or vertigo for a while and haven’t yet found answers. Knowing what to expect on the day can make a real difference — so here’s an honest, straightforward guide to what your first appointment at angli-EAR Hearing actually looks like.
Before you arrive
There’s no complicated preparation required. Your confirmation will include any specific instructions relevant to your assessment.
It’s worth bringing a note of your symptoms if you can — when they started, what seems to trigger them, how often they occur and how they affect your daily life. You don’t need a formal written document; even a few bullet points on your phone will help make the most of your appointment time.
If possible, it’s a good idea to bring someone with you, particularly if your balance or dizziness symptoms make you feel uncertain when travelling alone.
When you arrive
Your assessment will be carried out by Shreya, our Vestibular Specialist. The appointment begins with a relaxed conversation about your symptoms and medical history – there are no right or wrong answers, and the more detail you can share, the better picture Shreya can build of what you’ve been experiencing.
This part of the appointment matters more than people often expect. Vestibular conditions can present in very different ways, and understanding the full picture of your symptoms is an important part of reaching the right diagnosis.
The testing
Following the initial discussion, Shreya will carry out a series of specialist tests to evaluate how your vestibular system is functioning. These are non-invasive and most clients find them straightforward.
You’ll wear a pair of lightweight specialist goggles for some of the tests – these are used to record eye movements and assess how your inner ear responds to movement. If you’d like to understand more about the specific tests used and why, our earlier blog [Understanding VNG and vHIT: Two Tests That Help Get to the Root of Dizziness and Vertigo] goes into more detail.
Most clients are surprised by how manageable the testing is. It is not painful, and while some tests may briefly reproduce a mild sense of dizziness, this is temporary and is actually useful information for the assessment.
After the tests
Once the testing is complete, Shreya will talk you through what the findings show. This is often the part clients find most valuable — finally having a clearer understanding of what has been causing their symptoms and what can be done about it.
Depending on the results, she may recommend a course of vestibular rehabilitation, a specific treatment such as a repositioning manoeuvre for BPPV, or further investigation if the findings suggest the symptoms may have a different underlying cause. Whatever the outcome, you won’t leave without a clear explanation and agreed next steps.
How long will it take and how will you feel afterwards?
The initial vestibular assessment appointment is 60 minutes. Most clients feel fine afterwards, though if you’ve had a particularly active assessment it’s sensible to have someone available to drive you home if needed.
Not sure if you’re ready for a full assessment?
That’s completely understandable – and it’s exactly why we offer a free 15-minute Balance Health Check as a first step. It’s a short, no-obligation conversation with Shreya, available in person, by phone or via video call, to help work out whether a full assessment is likely to help with what you’re experiencing.
Many clients find it’s all they need to feel confident about taking the next step.
