Tilt Table Test
Fainting, fainting and ecstasy; in the medical language is called syncope. Syncope (fainting) is the temporary loss of consciousness and posture. Syncope is caused by the low blood pressure and the inadequate blood flow to the brain when the heart is unable to deliver enough oxygen to the brain. Under fainting, sometimes there are no serious reasons, sometimes it can be a precursor to important health problems.
Tilt test is a test to detect and diagnose the sudden decrease in blood pressure as a result of expansion of blood vessels and the associated syncope.
How is the Tilt test done?
The head-up tilt table test is a way to find the cause of fainting spells. You lie on a bed and you’re tilted at different angles (from 60 to 70 degrees) while machines monitor your blood pressure, electrical impulses in your heart and oxygen level.
It’s done in a special room called the EP (electrophysiology) lab.
How Should I Prepare for It?
If you're scheduled for a head-up tilt table test, you should:
- Take all your medications, as prescribed.
- Not eat or drink anything after midnight the evening before your test. If you must take medications, drink only small sips of water to help you swallow your pills.
- Bring a list of all your current medications, including the dose.
- Wear comfortable clothes to the hospital. It is best not to wear any jewelry or bring valuables.
- Plan to have someone drive you home after your test.
- If you have diabetes, ask how to take your medications, eat, and drink before the procedure.
What Should I Expect?
It usually takes 20 to35 minutes to complete. That may vary, depending on how your blood pressure and heart rate change and what symptoms you have during it.
Before the test begins, a nurse will start an IV. This is so the doctors and nurses may give you medications and fluids during the procedure if necessary.
You will be awake during the test. They will ask you to lie quietly and keep your legs still.Tilt test was started to be performed in our hospital as of 13.11.2018.