A positive tilt table test means you may have a condition that causes an abnormal change in blood pressure, heart rate or heart rhythm. A negative tilt table test means that there were no signs of a condition that causes an abnormal change in your blood pressure, heart rate or heart rhythm.

What is the head up tilt test?

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 30 to 60 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.

What is the treatment for a positive tilt table test?

In general, a tilt table test is not usually repeated. If the results point to orthostatic hypotension as the cause of your symptoms, then you will likely be treated with medications that raise your blood pressure or increase the fluid in your body.

How do you feel after a tilt test?

Side effects. The purpose of the tilt-table test is for a doctor to view firsthand the symptoms you experience when changing position. You might not feel ill effects during the procedure, but you may experience symptoms like dizziness, feeling faint, or even fainting. You may also feel very nauseated.

How is syncope diagnosed?

Diagnosing vasovagal syncope often begins with a physical examination. During the physical exam, your doctor will listen to your heart and take your blood pressure. He or she may also massage the main arteries in your neck to see if that causes you to feel faint.

Does syncope go away?

Vasovagal syncope is usually harmless and requires no treatment. But it’s possible that you may injure yourself during a vasovagal syncope episode. Your doctor may recommend tests to rule out more-serious causes of fainting, such as heart disorders.

What does the tilt test diagnose?

A tilt table test is used to evaluate the cause of unexplained fainting. Your doctor might recommend a tilt table test if you have repeated, unexplained episodes of lightheadedness, dizziness or fainting. The test can help determine if the cause is related to your heart rate or blood pressure.

What happens if you faint during a tilt table test?

After a tilt table test. If you faint while vertical, the table will be returned to a horizontal position immediately and you’ll be monitored. Most people regain consciousness almost immediately.