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Tilt Table Test: Finding the Cause of Fainting and Dizziness

Explorando los Beneficios de la Prueba de la Mesa Inclinada en Hospital CMQ

Medically reviewed by Nadia Fierro, MD. CardiologyLast reviewed:

Reading time: 2 minutes

About the author: Dr. Nadia Fierro is a recognized Cardiology, Echocardiography, and Cardiovascular Imaging specialist in Puerto Vallarta. Since 2021, she has been working at Hospital CMQ. After completing her medical degree at the distinguished Autonomous University of Sinaloa, Dr. Fierro decided to specialize in the area of cardiology. Subsequently, seeking to improve her knowledge and skills, she completed a fellowship in echocardiography and cardiovascular imaging at one of the leading medical institutions in the country: Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán.

A tilt table test helps identify the cause of unexplained fainting or dizziness by monitoring your blood pressure, heart rate, and other vital signs as your body position changes.

What is a tilt table test?

It's a non-invasive procedure that tracks how your cardiovascular system responds as you move from lying down to a near-vertical position, helping identify why you may feel lightheaded or faint.

When do I need this test?

Your doctor may recommend it if you've had repeated fainting episodes, unexplained dizziness, or symptoms that suggest your blood pressure or heart rate doesn't adjust normally to changes in posture.

Frequent dizziness or fainting? Book your evaluation — 322 226 6500.

How should I prepare for the test?

  • Discuss your current medications with your provider beforehand — some may need adjusting
  • Follow any fasting instructions given ahead of your appointment
  • Wear comfortable clothing

What happens during the test?

The test takes about 20 to 40 minutes. Electrodes are placed on your chest to monitor your heart, and a blood pressure cuff tracks changes throughout. The table is then gradually tilted from horizontal toward a near-vertical position while your vital signs are recorded.

How are the results interpreted?

ResultWhat it may indicate
Normal responseNo abnormal drop in blood pressure or heart rate
Vasovagal syncopeA reflex causing a sudden drop in blood pressure/heart rate
Orthostatic hypotensionBlood pressure drops significantly when standing
Autonomic dysfunctionThe nervous system isn't regulating blood pressure normally

Our tilt table test specialists

Our CardioCare team, including Dra. Nadia Fierro (Cardiac Ultrasound) and Dr. Joel Sánchez (Interventional Cardiology), interprets results in the context of your full cardiac history.

References

  • American Heart Association — Syncope Evaluation
  • Heart Rhythm Society — Tilt Table Testing Guidelines

Schedule your tilt table test with our CardioCare team — 322 226 6500.

Dr Joel Sánchez

Joel Sánchez

Interventional Cardiology

Dr. Joel Sanchez is an outstanding Interventional Cardiology specialist who practices at CMQ Riviera Nayarit. He obtained his degree as a Surgeon from the University of Guadalajara. Subsequently, he decided to focus his medical career on the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. He completed a specialty in Cardiology at the Hospital de Cardiología Siglo XXI endorsed by the IMSS.

Later, Dr. Sanchez completed a high specialty in Interventional Cardiology, a branch of cardiology that specializes in minimally invasive techniques to treat cardiac conditions, at the Siglo XXI Medical Center endorsed by the UNAM. Among the most common conditions that Dr. Joel Sanchez treats in his medical practice are:

  • Chest angina
  • Unsteady angina
  • Heart attacks
  • Arrhythmias
  • Arterial hypertension
  • Heart murmurs

 

In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Sanchez has performed numerous minimally invasive surgical procedures such as catheterization, pacemaker placement, and heart valve replacement (TAVI, TAVR), among others. In summary, Dr. Joel Sanchez is a leading specialist in interventional cardiology, whose experience and skills in minimally invasive procedures have left a significant mark in the field of cardiology.

Moreover, Dr. Joel Sanchez has been actively involved in scientific research and publications in cardiology. His passion for research and his interest in keeping up to date with the latest advances in his field has led him to attend conferences and specialized courses in interventional cardiology, both nationally and internationally.

His commitment to excellence in medical care, professional ethics, and quality standards is reflected in his daily practice and in his relationship with both patients and fellow physicians.

Schedule your appointment! Send a message to 322 140 1776 and book a consultation with Dr. Joel Sanchez.

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Frequently asked questions

What conditions can this test detect?

It helps identify causes of fainting related to blood pressure regulation, heart rate response, and the autonomic nervous system.

Are there any dietary restrictions?

Your provider may ask you to fast for a few hours beforehand — follow the specific instructions given at scheduling.

Is the test uncomfortable?

Some people feel brief lightheadedness during the test itself, which is part of what helps identify the cause — the procedure is closely monitored throughout.

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