Tilt Test
During this test, your body is tilted (always with your head up) at different angles for a period of time. Your heart rhythm and blood pressure, as well as any symptoms, are closely monitored and evaluated as you change position.
The test is used to:
- Evaluate for neurocardiogenic syncope, a condition involving the heart and nervous system in which a person passes out, faints or is unconscious for a short time. In these instances, the person's blood pressure and heart rate drop suddenly, and the brain does not receive enough blood, resulting in a loss of consciousness.
- Determine the cause of fainting spells.
- Evaluate heart rhythm, blood pressure, symptoms and sometimes other measurements with change of position.
Preparing for the test:
- Do not eat, drink or smoke for two hours before the test. If you are taking medications for a heart condition or diabetes, check with your doctor to see if you should adjust your medications before the test.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing and leave jewelry and other valuables at home.
- Make sure you have someone to drive you home after the test. Most patients are able to return home immediately after the test.
- If you are pregnant or think you could be, or if you are a nursing mother, notify your doctor before the test.
What to expect during the test:
Several small sticky patches called electrodes will be placed on your chest. Wires to an electrocardiograph (EKG) machine will connect these electrodes. A blood pressure cuff will be placed on your arm. Your heart rhythm, heart rate and blood pressure will be recorded throughout the test. An IV line will be placed into a vein in your arm to administer medications and fluids during the procedure and, if necessary, treat your symptoms and/or blood pressure and heart rate changes. You will be awake during the test, but will be asked to lie quietly and keep your legs still. The table will be placed in a standing position, then tilted at different angles for a period of time. If you notice any symptoms similar to when you passed out (such as yawning, nausea, warmth or dizziness), please tell the staff as they occur.
If none of your symptoms reoccur, you will be placed flat and a medication will be administered into your IV to increase your heart rate. After a short time, you will be placed in a standing position again. If you notice any symptoms similar to when you passed out or experience chest pain, dizziness or shortness of breath, tell the staff. After the medication is completed, you will be placed flat. Your heart rate and blood pressure will continue to be checked for about 10 minutes.
The test generally takes about two hours.
What to expect after the test:
A cardiologist will read the test and report results to your doctor. Your doctor will inform you of the test results.