Cardiac & Vascular Services

Tilt Tests

Tilt tests are conducted to determine the cause of fainting spells.

During a tilt test, patients lie flat on a special examining table. The patients is then hooked up to a EKG machine and blood pressure monitor.

After the baseline heart rate and blood pressure is taken, the table is then tilted to varying degree angles. Straps and supports help keep patients on the table as it tilts. The change in table angle causes the patient's blood pressure and heart rate to change. The new values are recorded and then evaluated to help determine the cause of fainting in the patient.