Tilt Table Test

What is a Tilt Table Test?

A tilt table test is a diagnostic method used to evaluate unexplained fainting cases (syncope). This advanced medical procedure effectively assesses how your blood pressure, heart rate, or both respond to gravity and helps diagnose conditions such as vasovagal syncope (reflex-mediated fainting), orthostatic hypotension (blood pressure drop upon standing), or POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome).

During the test, the patient is securely placed on a specialized table and safely strapped in. The table is then precisely tilted to a 60-70 degree angle, and the patient is continuously monitored in this position for 20-45 minutes. Throughout this period, vital signs are meticulously tracked. In some cases, specific medications may be used to enhance the diagnostic process.

What Does a Tilt Table Test Show?

A Tilt Table Test reveals crucial insights about your heart rate (pulse), heart rhythm, and blood pressure changes in an upright position. This valuable information is essential for determining the causes of fainting (syncope) and developing an effective treatment plan.

Why is a Tilt Table Test Performed?

A tilt table test may be recommended if the cause of your fainting (syncope) is unknown, or if your doctor suspects a dysfunction in your autonomic nervous system – the system that controls your blood pressure and heart rate.

The test is particularly useful in understanding the cause of fainting episodes that occur while standing, during intense stress, when exposed to unpleasant sights or smells, in hot environments, or in crowded places.

Where is a Tilt Table Test Performed?

A tilt table test is performed in a hospital or clinic equipped with a tilt laboratory or electrophysiology laboratory.

How Long Does a Tilt Table Test Take?

A tilt table test may last approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, though this duration varies from person to person. The primary goal is to effectively reproduce symptoms, and once achieved, the procedure is promptly concluded with valuable diagnostic data collected.

What Should I Do Before a Tilt Table Test?

Have a normal meal the evening before your procedure. Do not eat or drink anything for four hours before the test, though sometimes your doctor may extend this to 8 hours. Continue taking your medications at their usual times unless your doctor instructs otherwise.

How is a Tilt Table Test Performed?

An IV line is inserted at least half an hour before the procedure. The patient is placed and secured on the test table. The table is gradually tilted up to 70 degrees, simulating a standing position. Depending on the situation, a short-acting blood pressure-lowering medication may be administered for provocation. Heart rate and blood pressure are closely monitored. When the test becomes positive (i.e., fainting occurs), the table is returned to its normal position and the person is allowed to recover.

What Do Positive or Negative Tilt Test Results Mean?

A positive tilt test means fainting occurred during the test. A negative tilt test means no fainting occurred.

Is a Tilt Table Test Safe?

Yes, a tilt table test is safe. However, like all tests and procedures, it carries some risks. The test is not performed on people with coronary artery disease or carotid artery stenosis. While it doesn’t pose risks to the mother during pregnancy, it may risk the baby’s health, so it’s generally avoided during pregnancy.

FAQs About Tilt Table Test

What symptoms might occur during a tilt table test?

Common symptoms during the test include:

• Dizziness
• Sweating
• Nausea
• Drop in blood pressure
• Changes in heart rate
• Fainting

Is a tilt table test painful?

A tilt table test is not painful, though you may experience minimal discomfort. Initially, you’ll lie on a horizontal table and be secured with safety straps. These straps aren’t uncomfortable – they’re just for safety. An IV line will be inserted in your arm, and a blood pressure cuff will be attached. ECG electrodes will be placed on your chest.

What you might experience during the test:

• A mild sensation of height as the table tilts
• Slight fatigue from remaining still
• Dizziness or lightheadedness (this is expected)
• Sweating or nausea

What happens if I faint during the test?

If fainting occurs, the table is immediately returned to a horizontal position and appropriate medical intervention is provided. This is actually part of the test and provides important diagnostic information.

What are the risks of a tilt table test?

The test is generally safe. In rare cases, prolonged fainting or low blood pressure may occur, but these conditions are quickly corrected.

When will I get my tilt table test results?

Results can usually be evaluated immediately after the test. A detailed report is prepared within a few days.

What do tilt table test results mean?

• Positive result: Fainting or symptoms occurred during the test
• Negative result: No symptoms were observed during the test

Is a tilt table test always accurate?

While the tilt table test has high diagnostic value, false positive or false negative results can sometimes occur.

Can a tilt table test be repeated?

Yes, the test can be repeated if necessary.

Can I have a tilt table test during pregnancy?

It’s generally not recommended during pregnancy, but can be performed under doctor’s supervision if absolutely necessary.

Can I return to normal activities after the test?

Most patients can return to normal activities immediately after the test. However, if fainting occurred during the test, a short rest period is recommended.

Should I continue taking my medications before the test?

This depends on your medications and the purpose of the test. Your doctor will tell you which medications to stop or continue.

Reference: Tilt Table