For this test, you are seated on an exam table. The doctor may ask you to look at his or her nose the whole time the test is done.

• The doctor first turns your head to one side and then lowers your head to the table.
• The doctor watches your eyes for nystagmus. Nystagmus is a rapid, rhythmic movement of the eyes.
  • If you get dizzy and the doctor sees nystagmus, then the doctor knows that the ear pointed to the floor is the affected ear.
  • If the doctor does not see nystagmus, he or she repeats steps 1 and 2 on the other side to check your other ear.

  The timing of the onset of dizziness helps the doctor locate the cause of the dizziness or vertigo.

• The doctor then helps you back to the upright position.