Heart test
Tilt Table Test
A tilt table test checks how your heart rate and blood pressure respond to a change in position, used to investigate fainting and dizziness.
Quick answer
Tilt Table Test: what it is and what the results mean
A tilt table test monitors your heart rhythm and blood pressure while you are moved from lying flat to an upright position on a special table. It looks for abnormal drops in blood pressure or heart rate that can cause fainting.
- Why it is done: It is used to investigate unexplained fainting (syncope), light-headedness or dizziness, particularly to diagnose reflex (vasovagal) fainting and blood-pressure-related causes when other tests have been normal.
- Understanding results: If the test reproduces your symptoms with a fall in blood pressure and/or heart rate, it helps confirm the cause of fainting and guide treatment such as fluid and salt advice, physical manoeuvres or medicines.
What it is
A tilt table test monitors your heart rhythm and blood pressure while you are moved from lying flat to an upright position on a special table. It looks for abnormal drops in blood pressure or heart rate that can cause fainting.
Why it is done
It is used to investigate unexplained fainting (syncope), light-headedness or dizziness, particularly to diagnose reflex (vasovagal) fainting and blood-pressure-related causes when other tests have been normal.
What to expect
You lie on a padded table with monitors and are gently strapped in. The table is tilted upright for a period while your heart rate and blood pressure are watched; medicine may be given to provoke symptoms. It takes about 30–60 minutes.
Understanding the results
If the test reproduces your symptoms with a fall in blood pressure and/or heart rate, it helps confirm the cause of fainting and guide treatment such as fluid and salt advice, physical manoeuvres or medicines.
Good to know
Risks and limitations
You may faint or feel unwell during the test, which is expected and closely monitored — the table can be quickly returned to flat. A normal test does not completely rule out fainting from other causes.
Education and reference only. This explains the test in general terms and is not medical advice. Always follow the specific instructions from the team arranging your test, and discuss your results with your clinician.
Answers
Tilt Table Test: frequently asked questions
Will I actually faint during the test?
You might, and that can actually help make the diagnosis. Staff monitor you closely and can return the table to flat immediately if you feel unwell, so it is done safely.
Do I need to prepare for a tilt table test?
You may be asked to avoid eating for a few hours beforehand and to check which medicines to pause. You will be given specific instructions before your appointment.
Related tests
Other heart test investigations
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — diagnostic guidance
- British Cardiovascular Society / relevant professional body
Building patient-education content for tests or procedures?
We create clear, accurate, referenced medical explainers and decision aids for teams.