What is the difference between a hearing test and a balance and vestibular evaluation?

Timothy Hunsaker

Au.D., CCC-A

Desert Valley Audiology

A standard hearing test assesses how well a person can detect sound across a range of frequencies and volumes, helping to identify the presence, type, and degree of hearing loss. A balance and vestibular evaluation, on the other hand, focuses specifically on the inner ear's balance system and is used to investigate symptoms such as dizziness, vertigo, or unsteadiness. Although both the hearing and balance systems are housed within the inner ear, they serve different functions and require different testing methods. In some cases, an audiologist may recommend both types of evaluations, particularly when a patient presents with symptoms that suggest an inner ear disorder affecting multiple systems.