Understanding Your Tilt Table Test

Recurring lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting spells can be frightening — and frustratingly hard to pin down. A tilt table test is one of the most useful tools we have for understanding how your heart and blood pressure respond when your body changes position.

Why this test is ordered

If you've fainted or felt faint without an obvious cause, your doctor may want to see how your heart rate and blood pressure behave as you move from lying down to standing. Certain conditions — like vasovagal syncope or orthostatic hypotension — are much easier to identify when we can observe your body's response directly, rather than relying on memory of a past episode.

What happens during the test

You'll lie on a specialized motorized table fitted with safety straps, connected to a blood pressure cuff and heart monitor. The table is slowly tilted to an upright angle, and you'll stay in that position — as still as possible — for a period of time while we track your readings continuously. If you begin to feel symptoms, tell the technician right away; the table can be returned to a flat position immediately.

How long does it take?

The full appointment usually takes 45–60 minutes, though the tilted portion itself is often shorter. Some patients feel their usual symptoms during the test — that's actually useful information, not a bad outcome, since it helps confirm the diagnosis.

Why we're proud to offer it locally

Tilt table testing is rarely offered outside major cities. Without a local option, patients in Chatham-Kent would typically need to travel to London — about two hours away — for this test. We're glad to be able to offer it right here, close to home.

Preparing for your appointment

Wear comfortable clothing, avoid caffeine for a few hours beforehand if possible, and bring a list of your current medications. Your referring physician will receive a full report with the findings.