Tilt table test

Tilt table test

        Tilt table test is a special test used to test in a group of fainting patients when the cause of fainting is unknown to find out an appropriate treatment. Fainting can be caused by many reasons. Some may be the problems of the brain, heart. or disorders of the autonomous nervous system. Tilt Table test is applied to detect whether there is any malfunction of autonomous nervous system or not which is possibly the most common cause of fainting.

Definition of fainting

It is a sudden lack of awareness of consciousness (typically less than 1 minute) as a result of hypoxia in the brain without local neurological abnormalities such as epilepsy, etc. Although fainting is rarely fatal, but its recurrence can cause anxiety and injury to the body or brain abnormalities.

Test indicators

This test is applied for patients who faint regularly or easily from common activities, such as standing in line for a long time, exposure to the sun, dehydration, lack of rest, sleep deprivation, drinking a lot of alcohol.

Principles of testing

Patient will lie over the adjustable bed at 70 – 80 degrees for 15-20 minutes. Some may apply medicine to accumulate the blood that flow to the lower body part. The specialist then analyzes by observing heart rate, blood pressure, ECG characteristics. Patient's show fainting symptom during the test will immediately recover afterward.

Preparation

Abstain of water and food at least 3-6 hours before the test to prevent choking due to nausea and vomiting.