What is the Upright Tilt Table Test?: This is a test usually used to determine if a patient is having fainting spells (syncope) due to a sudden drop in blood pressure caused by a sudden dilation of the blood vessels. This type of drop can be caused by emotional stress, dehydration or standing upright for long periods of time.
How do I prepare for the Upright Tilt Table Test?:
- Do not eat or drink for six hours before your test.
- Your doctor may ask you to stop taking certain medications like vasodilators, beta-blockers and/or diuretics before the test.
- Prepare questions for the hospital staff and feel free to ask them.
- Allow at least two hours for the test.
What will happen during the test?: You will be asked to sign a consent form and put on a hospital gown. Then, a nurse will place a very small catheter (an IV) in one of your veins. This IV may be used to administer medication as ordered by your physician. You will then lie, strapped in, on the test table in a flat position. The position of the table is then raised up to a 70-degree angle at differing time increments. The entire time your blood pressure and heart rate are being closely monitored. The cardiologist may use IV Isuprel to induce symptoms of fainting. The test takes 30-45 minutes to complete.
What are the risks from the test?: Some physicians may use a medication called Isuprel; this medication's infrequent side effects include tremors, restlessness and nervousness.
What do I need to do after the test is over?: Continue to take your medications as ordered by your physician and keep any follow-up appointments as planned.
How long before I find out the results of my test?: The cardiologist will discuss the results with you right away.
