Tilt-table testing is used to evaluate the symptoms and changes in the heart rate and blood pressure of a patient when they change position and when they are in an upright position for a prolonged period.
This test is usually recommended for the investigation of patients who have dizziness or syncope in which the cause isn’t clear and there may be a neurocardiogenic (fainting) cause.
This test is safe. Patients may experience dizziness and temporarily lose consciousness as part of the test but patients are monitored carefully throughout. Sometimes a medication (GTN) is given under the tongue and this can cause a temporary headache.
Patients are asked not to eat before the test to reduce your chances of feeling nauseated. Also, since some of the common symptoms associated with the tilt-table test are dizziness and fainting, it is wise for you to arrange who will drive you home when the test is over.
A special table will be provided for the patient to lie down on and some monitoring equipment will be attached. The table will be tilted upwards to 60-70 degrees so the patient is nearly standing and will remain in this position for around half an hour, or less if they develop symptoms. The patient may be given a spray of GTN (a drug which reduces blood pressure) under the tongue as part of the test. Throughout the test the patient is asked to report their symptoms.
At the end of the test patients are asked to rest to ensure they feel better. Patients may need somebody to drive them home afterwards. The Cardiologist will review all of the data afterwards and use this information to identify if fainting is a likely cause of syncope.
Tilt testing is a specialist investigation that can be useful in syncope. Our cardiologists are available for consultation on any day of the week and weekends as well.
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT
020 31372439