Tilt Table Test – What is this for?

Tilt table test is a test to find the cause of unexplained problems, such as:

• Fainting.
• Dizziness.
• Falls.
• A drop in blood pressure when standing up (orthostatic hypotension).

For this test, you will be safely secured to a table that moves you from a lying position to an upright position. Your heart rhythm and blood pressure will be monitored during the test. While having this test, it is normal to:

• Feel lightheaded or dizzy.
• Faint.
• Feel nauseous or vomit.
• Have blurry vision.
• Feel cold or clammy.

Tell a health care provider about:

• All medicines you are taking, including vitamins, herbs, eye drops, creams, and over-the-counter medicines.
• Any surgeries you have had.
• Any medical conditions you have.
• Whether you are pregnant or may be pregnant.

What are the risks?

There are no risks or complications associated with this test.

What happens before the procedure?

• Follow instructions from your health care provider about eating or drinking restrictions.
• Ask your health care provider about changing or stopping your regular medicines. This is especially important if you are taking diabetes medicines or blood thinners.
• Let your primary health care provider know that you are having this test.
• Plan to have someone take you home after the test.

What happens during the procedure?

• You will be asked to lie down on a table. The table will have a footboard and safety straps to keep you in place.
• An IV tube will be inserted into a vein in your hand or arm.
• Your blood pressure, heart rate, breathing rate, and blood oxygen level will be monitored throughout the test.
• While you are lying down:
  • A stethoscope will be used to listen to arteries in your neck (carotid arteries) to check for unusual sounds (bruits).
  • Your carotid arteries will be pressed on one at a time, for several seconds each.
• You will be placed in an upright position. You will need to tell your health care provider right away if you feel dizzy or like you are going to faint.
• If you feel dizzy, your blood pressure drops, or your heart rate drops, you will be placed in a flat or head-down position. If your heart rate or blood pressure does not return to normal after that, you may be given medicine to help with symptoms of low blood pressure or a slow heart rate. The medicine may be given under your tongue or through the IV tube.
• If you do not have symptoms when placed in an upright position, medicine may be given to make you feel dizzy. The medicine may be given under your tongue or through the IV tube.

This test may vary among health care providers and hospitals.

What happens after the procedure?

• Your health care provider will tell you when may go home.
• It is your responsibility to get your test results. Ask your health care provider or the department performing the test when your results will be ready.