Tilt Test

The test involves being tilted, always with the head-up, at different angles for a period of time (2 minted at 30 degrees, then 2 minutes at 45 degrees, then up to 45 minutes at 70 degrees) . Heart rhythm, blood pressure and other symptoms are closely monitored and evaluated with changes in position.

 

The test is used to:

  • Evaluate for neurocardiogenic syncope. Syncope is a condition when a person passes out, faints, or is unconscious for a short time.  Neurocardiogenic means that the nervous system "neuro" and the heart system "cardio" are involved.  The person's blood pressure and heart rate drop suddenly and the brain does not receive enough blood.  This results in the 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 2 hours before the test.  You may have hard candy to suck or gum to chew.
  • Check with your doctor about continuing to take any heart medicines.  Your doctor may want you to stop taking some medicines a day or two before the test.  If you are diabetic, check with your doctor about how to adjust your diabetic medications.
  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing.  You may wear a hospital gown during the procedure, if you prefer. It is best not to wear any jewelry or valuables.
  • Most likely, you will be able to go home after the test. You should bring someone with you to drive you home after the test.
  • If you are pregnant, suspect you may be, or are a nursing mother; discuss this with 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, or EKG, machine will connect these electrodes.  A blood pressure cuff will be placed on your arm.  A recording of your heart rhythm, heart rate, and blood pressure will be obtained throughout the test.  An intravenous line (IV) will be placed into a vein in your arm to give you medications and fluids during the procedure and if necessary to treat your symptoms and/or blood pressure and heart rate changes.  You will lie on a table; straps will be placed around your chest, waist, and above your knees to prevent you from falling.

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 and then tilted at different angles for a period of time.  Blood pressure, heart rate and other measurements are recorded during the test.  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 given into your IV to increase your heart rate.  After a short time, you will stand up again.  If you notice any symptoms similar to when you passed out or chest pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath, tell the staff.  After the medication is done, you will be placed flat.  Your heart rate and blood pressure will continue to be checked for about 10 minutes.

The test will take about 2 hours.

 

What to expect after the test

A cardiologist will read the test and report the results to your doctor.  Your doctor will inform you of the test results.