Many people experience fainting or periods of dizziness due to underlying physical conditions. While many attempt to “power through” these symptoms or accept them as their “new normal”, effective assessments and treatment can help people achieve lasting results.
The VitalScan Tilt Test is a simple, non-invasive test that can help to identify the source of dizziness and fainting. This test evaluates the impact of position changes on heart rate and blood pressure in a safe and supportive environment. This test provides valuable information that can help integrative health practitioners properly assess a patient’s health and tailor the most effective treatment program.
This article will explore what to expect before, during, and after a VitalScan tilt test. You’ll learn about when someone might require this type of testing and how it can benefit your treatment plan and long-term recovery from dizziness.
If you or someone you love struggles with dizziness or fainting, treatment and support are available at The Hartman Center. Contact our specialists to explore our holistic assessment and treatment options or to schedule your first appointment. We look forward to partnering with you on your holistic health journey.
What is a VitalScanTilt Test?
The VitalScan Tilt Test is a procedure that assesses changes in heart rate and blood pressure that occur in response to position changes. During the procedure, the person lies on a specially designed table with a footrest. A practitioner attaches heart rate monitors and blood pressure cuffs to the patient. The practitioner then adjusts the angle of the table and collects information about the effects of these position changes on blood pressure and heart rate.
What Does the VitalScan Tilt Test Measure?
The Tilt Table test is designed to provide information about the causes of unexplained fainting or dizziness. This test assesses the impact of gravity and positional changes on a person’s blood pressure and heart rate.
This information may help the practitioner diagnose autonomic nervous system (ANS) dysregulation or disorders. Here is an overview of these conditions.
Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)
POTS is a cardiovascular autonomic disorder that causes increased heart rate and orthostatic intolerance when a person stands up from a reclined position. People with POTS may experience frequent bouts of dizziness or fainting, as well as elevated heart rate and extreme tiredness.
Neurocardiogenic Syncope (NCS)
NCS causes frequent, temporary drops in blood pressure that can lead to dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting.
Multiple System Atrophy (MSA)
MSA is a rare, progressive neurodegenerative condition that affects all autonomic functions, including balance, blood pressure, speech, bladder control, and movements.
Pure Autonomic Failure (PAF)
PAF causes dizziness and fainting when moving into a standing position. It can also affect sweat response, pupil reactions, bladder and bowel control, and sexual functioning.
Understanding the root cause of unexplained fainting or dizziness enables the person and their integrative health team to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses these symptoms effectively.
When is the Tilt Test Recommended?
Frequent fainting spells or dizziness can significantly impact a person’s quality of life and ability to function. It can be frustrating to live with dizziness that does not seem to have a clear cause.
A Tilt Test can provide information about how the body responds to changes in position. This can provide valuable insight into the health and functioning of the autonomic nervous system (ANS).
An integrative health practitioner may recommend the VitalScan Tilt Test for people who:
Experience unexplained dizziness
Have frequent, unexplained lightheadedness
With cardiac or neurological symptoms
Experience frequent fainting episodes without a clear cause
Many conditions related to ANS functioning have overlapping or similar symptoms. The Tilt Test is a straightforward, non-invasive, and low-risk method for gathering information that can help identify the root causes of unexplained fainting or dizziness, leading to personalized treatment.
How to Prepare for a VitalScan Tilt Test?
While the VitalScan Tilt Test is safe, it is essential to take specific steps to prepare for it. Proper preparation will ensure you get the most accurate results and have the best experience at every stage of assessment.
Your practitioner will review your individualized preparation instructions with you before performing this assessment. Here is a general overview of what you can do to prepare for this test.
Lifestyle changes
Your practitioner may ask you to stop taking certain medications before undergoing a Tilt Test. It is essential to inform your healthcare practitioner about all prescription and over-the-counter drugs, as well as any supplements you are currently taking. Then, your practitioner will tell you which medications to discontinue and when to stop taking them, if necessary.
You may be advised to stop using alcohol, caffeine, or products containing nicotine for up to 24 hours before undergoing the Tilt Test.
Your practitioner may advise you to refrain from performing rigorous exercise or other strenuous activities for a specific period (usually up to 24 hours) before the assessment.
Finally, you may be asked to eat a light meal and stay hydrated before your test. In some cases, your practitioner may advise that you fast, depending on your individual needs. Consult with your practitioner before the test to learn what will work best for you.
Practical considerations
A Tilt Test typically does not cause long-term discomfort. However, some people feel tired or dizzy afterwards. It is important to arrange for someone to drive you home after your appointment in case you are unable to drive safely.
Before heading out to your appointment, take a shower and wash your hair. Don’t apply any scented products, powders, lotions, or oils afterwards. These products can prevent the sticky heart monitor patches from adhering properly to your skin.
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early for your testing appointment. This will give your practitioner plenty of time to prepare you and the testing area. You may also need to fill out paperwork before beginning the test.
Finally, wear loose, comfortable clothing to your appointment. This will ensure your comfort throughout the Tilt Test.
Taking steps to prepare will ensure that the testing process goes smoothly and produces the most accurate results. Contact The Hartman Center specialists to learn more about the VitalScan Tilt Test or to make an intake appointment.
What Happens During a VitalScan Tilt Test?
During the VitalScan Tilt Test, you will lie on the motorized table with your feet resting comfortably against the footrest. Your practitioner will secure soft straps around your chest, waist, and thighs to keep you safe throughout the assessment period.
At the beginning of the test, you will lie flat for several minutes. This will allow your team to gather information about your baseline heart rate and blood pressure. After this, your practitioner will slowly tilt the table until you are in a near-standing position.
You will remain in this position for up to 45 minutes. During this period, your practitioner will continue to monitor your heart rate and blood pressure. If you experience nausea, dizziness, heart palpitations, or other uncomfortable symptoms, let your practitioner know right away.
It is important to remain as still as possible during the test. This will provide the most accurate data about how position changes impact your heart rate and blood pressure.
Your practitioner will return the table to its flat position and stop the test if they notice significant drops in your blood pressure while you are in the standing position. If you do not develop symptoms in the standing position, your practitioner will return you to the flat position when the testing period is complete.
What Happens After a VitalScan Tilt Test?
A VitalScan Tilt Test can provide valuable information about your health, including autonomic nervous system (ANS) functioning and balance. Here is what to expect after completing this assessment.
Immediately after the test
After completing the test, you will remain on the table in the flat position for a few minutes. Your practitioner will monitor your heart rate and blood pressure during this time. Once they have determined these are stable, you can get up from the table. You may be required to wait 30 to 60 minutes after completing the test before leaving the testing facility.
Potential side effects
Some people experience short-term side effects after completing a tilt test, including mild nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. These side effects typically resolve within half an hour. You must arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home after the test in case of dizziness or other side effects that may impair your ability to drive safely.
Results
Your practitioner may discuss your test results immediately after completion. They will review the gathered information and discuss any recommended follow-up or additional testing required.
Management
The VitalScan Tilt Test can help to determine the underlying causes of autonomic nervous system dysfunction and other conditions. Your treatment will depend on the type of ANS dysfunction identified and may include nutritional counseling, physical therapy, medications, exercise, and other holistic therapies.
Learn More Now
If you or someone you love experiences unexplained fainting spells or dizziness, it is crucial to investigate and address the underlying causes. Autonomic Assessment, including the VitalScan Tilt Test, can help pinpoint the root cause of these symptoms and guide effective, holistic treatment that leads to lasting relief.
Contact the specialists at The Hartman Center to learn more about the VitalScan Tilt Test or to schedule an intake appointment. We look forward to supporting your journey to better health and wellness.