Tilt Table Testing for POTS: A Straightforward Diagnostic Tool

The Tilt Table test is the gold standard for diagnosing Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). It's a controlled way to assess how your cardiovascular system responds to standing up.

Understanding the Tilt Table Test

For the Tilt Table Test, the patient starts out laying flat on a motorised table while a clinician records their baseline heart rate and blood pressure. The table then gently tilts the patient upright to 70 degrees, simulating the act of standing. This position is maintained for 5 minutes while vital signs are continuously monitored.

Patients are asked to remain as still as possible to avoid affecting the results. If symptoms become severe, the test can be stopped immediately. However, most patients tolerate the full test well.

What Clinicians Look For

A POTS diagnosis requires a sustained heart rate increase of 30 beats per minute or more (40 bpm for kids and teens) within the first 5 minutes of being upright, without a significant blood pressure drop. You'll also be monitored for symptoms like dizziness or light-headedness.

Why the Tilt Table Test Matters

Tilt table testing used by Dr Jessica Povall at Brain Hub

This test distinguishes POTS from other causes of dizziness or fainting, providing objective data for accurate diagnosis. The results directly inform treatment planning, moving beyond guesswork to evidence-based care.

Safety and Risks of the Tilt Table Test

The procedure is safe, with minimal risks limited to temporary dizziness or nausea during testing. It's essential to communicate with your clinician throughout the process. If you feel unwell, they can stop the test immediately.

Preparing for the Test

Before your Tilt Table Test, you may need to follow specific instructions. These could include avoiding certain medications or not eating for a few hours prior. Make sure to discuss any concerns with your clinician beforehand.

What to Expect During the Test

During the test, you’ll be monitored closely. The clinician will check your heart rate and blood pressure at regular intervals. You might feel a bit anxious, but remember, this is a routine procedure. Try to relax and focus on your breathing.

After the Test

Once the test is complete, you'll be helped back to a lying position. Your clinician will discuss the results with you and what they mean for your health. If POTS is diagnosed, they will outline a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

The Bottom Line

Tilt Table Test provides crucial objective measurements of your body's cardiovascular response to positional changes. For those with suspected POTS, it offers concrete answers about how your autonomic nervous system functions under controlled conditions.