This test stimulates your acoustic nerve by delivering cold or warm water or air into your ear canal. When cold water or air enters your ear and the inner ear changes temperature, it should cause fast, side-to-side eye movements called nystagmus. The test is done in the following way:

Before the test, your ear, especially the eardrum, will be checked. This is to make sure it is normal.

One ear is tested at a time.

A small amount of cold water or air is gently delivered into one of your ears. Your eyes should show an involuntary movement called nystagmus. Then they should turn away from that ear and slowly back. If water is used, it is allowed to drain out of the ear canal.

Next, a small amount of warm water or air is gently delivered into the same ear. Again, your eyes should show nystagmus. Then they should turn toward that ear and slowly back.

Your other ear is tested in the same way.

During the test, the health care provider may observe your eyes directly. Most often, this test is done as part of another test called electronystagmography.