Has anyone ever had a tilt table test done?!
Question: I have to have one done because of dizziness, fainting. I would like to know what is involved how you feel during and afterwards.
thanks
Answers:
Sean M - your description of the tilt table study protocol is VERY close but not quite right. I think, since you were volunteering for a research study, that you were subjected to a modified protocol. There are a few different protocols, but the key to a tilt table test is that the patient is monitored in a supine (flat on the back) position for several minutes, depending on the institution. Our institution keeps the patient flat for 20 minutes. Then, the patient is raised to an upright position, not slowly but over the course of a few seconds. Protocols differ in how steep of an angle is used. It usually ranges from 60 to 80 degrees. (We use 70 degrees.) The patient then stays in this position for twenty minutes or more while blood pressure and heart rate continue to be monitored. If the patients are raised up very slowly rather than over seconds, virtually nobody would experience symptoms of light-headedness or fainting. If no symptoms are induced after 20 minutes (or 30 minutes by some protocols) then sublingual nitroglycerin is administered. Some institutions do use Isuprel as well. This is an attempt to induce the fainting or light-headedness, although it makes the test less specific. Here's a good page that explains the protocol and shows a photo of the tilt table - http://pwp.netcabo.pt/0413553701/tilt_eng.htm
Other Answers:
I had one about a year ago as a study volunteer. 1st you lay down on the table. There is a board at the bottom that you rest your feet against so that when they tilt it up you don't just slide off. You'll be connected to a heart monitor and a blood pressure cuff. Slowly (and I mean really slowly) the table will begin to tilt you upright until you are pretty much standing straight up. If you haven't passed out at this point (by the way, you are strapped in so if you do pass out you don't fall) they might give you a drug called Isuprel (Isoproterenol) to speed up your heart rate. Then your done. If you pass out, the test is over. Otherwise, it takes about 1 hour total.
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