A tilt table test diagnoses unexplained fainting or dizziness by assessing how your heart rate and blood pressure respond to changes in body position. Proper preparation ensures accurate results and a smoother experience.
Before Your Test Day
Preparation for a tilt table test begins well before your scheduled appointment. Patients are typically advised to refrain from eating or drinking for a specific period, usually between four to twelve hours before the test. For a morning test, this often means no food or drink after midnight the night prior. If your test is in the afternoon, a light breakfast might be permitted four to six hours beforehand.
Regarding medications, it is important to discuss your current regimen with your doctor. Some medications, especially those affecting blood pressure or heart rate, may need to be temporarily stopped or adjusted days or even weeks before the test, but this should only be done under direct medical guidance. Unless specifically instructed otherwise, you should generally continue taking your prescribed medications. You may be allowed small sips of water to take necessary medications during the fasting period.
To ensure comfort during the procedure, wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Avoid restrictive garments such as tight stockings or corsets, and for women, it is recommended to avoid underwire bras on the day of the test. Applying lotions, oils, or powders to your chest should also be avoided on the day of the test, as these can interfere with the placement of monitoring electrodes.
What to Do on Test Day
On the day of your tilt table test, plan to arrive on time or slightly early to complete any necessary paperwork. You may be asked to remove jewelry or clothing from the waist up and provided with a hospital gown to wear during the test. Before the procedure begins, it is advisable to empty your bladder.
Arranging transportation home after the test is a practical step, as you might feel lightheaded or dizzy. It is generally not recommended to drive yourself home. Bring essential personal items such as identification, your insurance card, and a comprehensive list of all your current medications, including dosages, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal supplements.
It is also advisable to avoid certain substances before the test, even if not explicitly forbidden by fasting instructions. Refrain from consuming alcohol, caffeine, or nicotine for at least 12 hours prior to the test, as these can influence your heart rate and blood pressure responses. Strenuous exercise should also be avoided for at least 24 hours beforehand to ensure your body is rested.
Talking with Your Doctor Before the Test
Open communication with your healthcare provider before your tilt table test is important for your safety and the accuracy of the results. You should discuss any existing health conditions you have, such as pregnancy, diabetes, or heart conditions like heart failure or blocked arteries, as this allows them to tailor the test to your specific health profile. Also, notify your doctor about any known allergies, especially to medications or materials like latex, which may be used during the procedure.
Before the test, take the opportunity to ask any questions or express any concerns you may have about the procedure or preparation. Understanding what to expect can help alleviate anxiety and ensure you are fully informed. Your doctor can provide specific instructions tailored to your individual needs, ensuring the most effective and safe test experience.