Functional Head Impulse Test

The Functional Head Impulse Test (fHIT) is a diagnostic test that measures the functioning of the vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR). Unlike conventional tests, which only assess VOR gain, the fHIT tests how well your eyes can continue to see clearly through fast, unexpected head movements like the ones you get in real life. This functional evaluation is important because even when routine metrics are within normal limits, the subtle deficits in gaze stabilization can result in blurred vision, imbalance, and risk of falls. At Dr. Sona's Vertigo & ENT Clinic, we incorporate the fHIT as a part of our full vestibular assessment to make sure that we obtain the numerical values and the actual functional effect of vestibular dysfunction on a patient's activities of daily living. This test is fast, painless, and gives an instant, functional assessment of your capacity to maintain your vision steady while in motion, and it is an invaluable component of contemporary vestibular diagnostics.