Tilt-table test

A tilt table test helps to determine whether recurrent, unexplained symptoms such as fainting, dizzy spells and light-headedness are related to a drop in blood pressure or a change in your heart rate when you stand or sit up.

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At HCA UK, we provide private tilt table tests to help give you the answers you're looking for.

Private tilt table test appointments confirmed within 24 hours
Tilt table results sent within 48 hours
Outstanding cardiovascular care provider ranked no.1 in the UK
99% of cardiac patients would recommend HCA UK to friends and family

Signs you might need a tilt table test

Tilt tests are used to determine the cause of symptoms that could be associated with your heart. You may need a test if you regularly have any of the following unexplained symptoms after standing or sitting up:

Light-headedness
Fainting (syncope)
Dizzy spells

Any one of these symptoms can be linked to a wide range of heart conditions, so you should see a doctor as soon as possible if you experience any repeatedly. They may recommend a tilt table exam and other forms of diagnostic testing to identify any potential underlying causes. At HCA, you can see a GP at a time that suits you and even on the same day if necessary.

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Why choose HCA UK for private tilt table tests?

#1 ranking for private cardiovascular care: With over 26,000 cardiac patients cared for per year, we're the UK's most trusted private care provider. According to our patient surveys, 99% would recommend us to family and friends.
Test results reviewed by consultant cardiologists: Our care and expertise go far beyond testing. Your cardiologist will review your tilt table test results, deliver an accurate diagnosis and recommend the most effective treatment options if necessary.
Integrated care: Our team of electrophysiologists and cardiologists deliver exceptional care across all our private facilities. They're supported by subspeciality multi-disciplinary teams to ensure you receive personalised care of the highest quality.
Outstanding healthcare facilities: We ensure you have access to the best diagnostic equipment and the full range of treatments across our network of private clinics and hospitals. Our facilities include 15 outpatient and diagnostic cardiac centres across the UK.
Rapid testing and results: We can confirm your tilt test with a cardiovascular specialist within 24 hours of you requesting an appointment. All our test results are sent within 48 hours, so you don't have too long to wait.

What is a tilt table test?

The tilt table test is used to evaluate unexplained symptoms such as light-headedness, dizziness or fainting that typically occur when standing up after lying down. By recreating these symptoms in a safe, controlled environment while monitoring your heart rate, rhythm and blood pressure, cardiologists can detect any underlying causes and recommend specific treatments.

Using a tilt table helps to determine whether your symptoms are caused by a drop in blood pressure or a change in your heart rate or rhythm as you change positions. If you've been experiencing recurrent issues, a tilt table procedure may be recommended alongside other diagnostic tests to get a more comprehensive understanding of your symptoms. In some cases, a tilt table is only requested if likely causes have been ruled out during other tests.

Why is a tilt table procedure done?

Symptoms such as fainting, light-headedness and dizziness can be linked to various medical conditions involving the heart. However, a tilt table test is usually recommended if you experience symptoms after standing or sitting up. This could be associated with conditions including:

Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS): A condition where your body can't manage your blood pressure and heart rate normally when standing up, usually causing symptoms such as a fast heart rate, fatigue and dizziness.
Cardiac arrhythmia: An umbrella term referring to conditions caused by an abnormal heartbeat. The two most common types resulting in a positive tilt table exam are bradycardia (an abnormally slow heart rate) and tachycardia (an abnormally fast heart rate).
Cardiomyopathy: A range of diseases impacting the heart's ability to pump blood effectively around the body. Over time, this can lead to heart failure as the organ becomes weaker and your body doesn't get the blood supply it needs to function.
Low blood pressure (hypotension): A potential cause of symptoms, it can be both a condition and a symptom of another condition. Blood pressure being too low can mean your vital organs aren't getting enough blood to function properly.

A positive tilt test may be a sign of one of the heart conditions above, but it can also be because of other complications such as low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia). Your cardiologist will review the results of your cardiac tilt test and talk you through any conclusions.

How does a tilt table test work?

A tilt table test triggers your symptoms in a safe and controlled way by imitating what happens in your body when you stand or sit up after lying down. The test procedure is as follows:

ECG (electrocardiogram) sensors are attached to your chest using small sticky pads to monitor your heart rate and rhythm, while a blood pressure monitor will also be attached to your arm.
With the ECG sensors and blood pressure monitoring in place, you're strapped onto a motorised table which can be raised and lowered to different angles. Secure safety straps are used so you don't fall if you faint or feel light-headed.
You'll start in a flat table position for up to 15 minutes so your baseline blood rate and blood pressure readings can be taken.
Your heart rate, rhythm and blood pressure are assessed as your body is tilted in gradual timed stages up to an almost upright position to simulate standing up. How your heart rate and blood pressure respond to this change in position can help to identify why you're experiencing symptoms such as fainting, dizziness and light-headedness.
If you don't start having symptoms during the test, you may be given medication to help recreate them. Normal tilt table test results should see your blood pressure staying stable as your position is elevated while your heart rate increases as expected when upright.

What does a tilt table test show?

A tilt test gives your cardiologist insight into how your autonomic nervous system controls your heart rate and blood pressure. When you change position from lying down to standing up, as simulated on the tilt table, your heart rate and blood pressure can suddenly drop. Consequently, less blood flows to the brain, causing symptoms such as fainting, dizziness and light-headedness.

Your body should be able to manage your heart rate and blood pressure whether you're lying down, sitting or standing. So, if you're having these symptoms, it may be a sign of an underlying condition that impacts how your nervous system and heart adapt when you stand or sit up.

Specialists in private tilt table tests and cardiovascular care

Our cardiac department cares for more than 25,000 people each year, carrying out private tilt table tests and other diagnostic procedures to identify and monitor a wide range of heart conditions. If we find any complications, our cardiologists are experts in cardiac care and can support you with accurate tilt table diagnosis, effective treatment and ongoing monitoring.

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What to expect from a private tilt table test

How to prepare for a private tilt test?

Your consultant cardiac physiologist will explain the tilt table test and answer any questions you may have. If you have any existing medical conditions or are taking any medications that may influence the test, these should be discussed before it takes place.

You should eat a light meal around four hours before the test and then nothing until after. Additionally, you'll be advised to avoid caffeine for at least 24 hours leading up to the tilt table exam.

Are there any risks to a tilt table test?

Tilt table tests are generally safe. However, there are some risks associated with purposefully triggering your symptoms and testing in general. Potential complications during and after the test can include:

Low or high blood pressure
Dizziness and light-headedness
Nausea
Weakness
Fainting
Changes in heart rate and palpitations
Stomach discomfort

If you faint during a tilt table procedure, the cardiac physiologist overseeing the test will lower the table back down so you can regain consciousness. Because symptoms will have been triggered, the test will be over, but you'll continue to be monitored until you're in the right condition to return home.

How long does a private tilt table test take?

Generally, it lasts between one and two hours although you won't be in a tilted position for that length of time. After lying flat on the motorised table for up to 15 minutes, so blood rate and blood pressure readings can be taken, the bed will slowly be tilted, head up. There will be pauses of 2-3 minutes at around 30° and 45° for further monitoring. You'll then be tilted to a final 60° angle. You'll be monitored for anything up to 45 minutes in this position and then for a short time once you've been lowered.

What happens after a private tilt table test?

As soon as you feel well and any symptoms of dizziness have gone, you'll be able to go home. You may have a headache for up to a few days afterwards, particularly if you have been very tired or had low energy along with dizziness and low general stamina. Drink lots of water to remain hydrated after the test.

Your cardiologist will review the results and discuss them with you. If any further tests or treatment options are needed, they will also explain these to you.

Find a consultant for your cardiac tilt test

Our cardiologists rely on a range of tests to help diagnose your symptoms. For a tilt test, you'll attend an outpatient department where our cardiac team will support you through the procedure. Your consultant cardiologist will then review your tilt table test results, explain them to you and recommend possible next steps.

Use our consultant finder to view individual profiles and book an appointment directly if desired. Alternatively, we'll find you the best-suited cardiologist when you request an appointment.

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Paying for your private tilt table test

There are a few ways to pay for a private tilt table test with HCA UK. The cost may be covered by a private medical insurance policy if you have one. However, it's always worth checking with your insurance provider to check your type or level of cover and any conditions that apply. You can also discuss making HCA UK your preferred provider.

If you're paying for your care, our facilities accept a range of payment methods including all major credit cards, cash, bank transfers and personal cheques. We'll give you a transparent quote including the cost of the tilt table test itself and any additional services necessary for your private cardiac care. We pride ourselves on making sure you don't face any hidden charges.

Find out more about how to pay for your treatment