If you’ve been experiencing unexplained dizziness, a racing heart when you stand, brain fog, or fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest — and no one can tell you what’s wrong — you’re not alone.
Many people with POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) go years without an accurate diagnosis. One of the most effective ways to finally get answers is through a diagnostic tool called the tilt table test.
In this blog, we’ll explain:
- What is tilt table testing?
- How it helps diagnose POTS and other types of dysautonomia
- What to expect before, during, and after the test
- Where to get tilt table testing in Maryland
If you’re searching for a POTS doctor in Maryland or preparing for your first evaluation, this guide is for you.
What Is a Tilt Table Test?
A tilt table test is a specialized procedure that evaluates how your body responds to changes in position — specifically, moving from lying down to standing up. It’s primarily used to diagnose forms of orthostatic intolerance, including:
- Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)
- Neurocardiogenic Syncope (NCS)
- Orthostatic Hypotension (OH)
In POTS, your heart rate increases 30 beats per minute or more (or 40 bpm in teens) within 10 minutes of standing — without a significant drop in blood pressure. The tilt table test captures that physiological change in a controlled clinical setting.
Why Is Tilt Table Testing Important?
Many people with POTS appear “normal” during routine exams. Blood pressure and heart rate may look fine when sitting or lying down. That’s why testing your body’s response to postural changes is critical.
The tilt table test helps:
- Confirm or rule out a POTS diagnosis
- Distinguish POTS from similar conditions like anxiety, panic attacks, or chronic fatigue
- Guide appropriate POTS treatment in MD and track progress over time
At our POTS clinic in Maryland, tilt testing is one of the first steps toward understanding your body’s unique physiology — and building a care plan that works for you.
Who Should Get a Tilt Table Test?
Tilt table testing may be recommended if you experience:
- Dizziness or lightheadedness when standing
- Frequent near-fainting or fainting (syncope)
- A racing heart upon standing (tachycardia)
- Intense fatigue after minor exertion
- Heat intolerance, shakiness, or blurred vision upon standing
- Symptoms triggered after COVID-19, surgery, or a viral illness
If your primary care doctor or cardiologist suspects postural orthostatic tachycardic syndrome MD, they may refer you for tilt table testing to confirm the diagnosis.
How Does the Test Work?
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what to expect during a tilt table test in Maryland at a specialized facility like Diekman Dysautonomia.
1. Preparation
You’ll be asked to:
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol for 24 hours before the test
- Stop certain medications, like beta-blockers or stimulants, under doctor’s guidance
- Eat a light meal or nothing (depending on your provider’s instructions)
- Dress comfortably and bring a list of your current symptoms and medications
We know POTS patients are often fatigued and overwhelmed, so our team makes every effort to support you before and during the test.
2. Baseline Readings
Once you arrive:
- You’ll lie flat on the tilt table
- We’ll place monitors for your heart rate, blood pressure, and sometimes oxygen saturation
- You’ll rest quietly in the horizontal position for 5–10 minutes
This provides a baseline measurement of your vitals before upright positioning.
3. The Tilt Phase
After baseline measurements:
- The table is tilted upward to a 60-70 degree angle to simulate standing
- You’re securely strapped in for safety
- Your vitals are monitored continuously for up to 10–45 minutes
- You’ll be asked how you feel throughout the test (dizzy, faint, nauseous, etc.)
The goal is to see how your body responds to being upright — especially your heart rate and blood pressure trends over time.
4. Optional Medication Challenge (If Needed)
If your symptoms don’t occur during the initial test, some facilities may perform a second round with a medication like isoproterenol to provoke a stronger autonomic response. This is not always necessary or recommended and is done with careful monitoring.
5. Recovery
Once the test is complete:
- The table is returned to horizontal
- You’ll rest briefly while we continue to monitor your vitals
- You may feel lightheaded or tired afterward — this is normal
Plan to have someone drive you home and rest for the remainder of the day.
What Do the Results Mean?
For POTS:
- Your heart rate increases by 30+ bpm (or 40+ bpm in teens) within 10 minutes of tilting
- Blood pressure typically remains stable
- You may experience symptoms like dizziness, palpitations, or fatigue during the test
A positive test helps confirm a diagnosis of POTS, giving you clarity and access to targeted care.
Other Possible Findings:
- Orthostatic Hypotension – A significant drop in blood pressure when standing
- Neurocardiogenic Syncope – Sudden fainting due to nervous system reflexes
- No significant changes – Some patients may need additional testing or monitoring over time
What Happens After the Test?
At Diekman Dysautonomia, we don’t just stop at diagnosis. We use your tilt table results to create a customized care plan, which may include:
- Hydration and salt intake guidance
- Compression garments
- Recumbent exercise programs
- Targeted medications if appropriate
- Follow-up testing or referrals as needed
Our clinic specializes in postural orthostatic tachycardic syndrome MD, and we provide ongoing support — not just one-time testing.
How to Schedule Tilt Table Testing in Maryland
If you’re looking for POTS clinics MD that offer tilt table testing, be sure to choose one that:
- Specializes in dysautonomia and autonomic disorders
- Has providers trained in reading and interpreting autonomic test results
- Offers integrated follow-up care after diagnosis
At Diekman Dysautonomia, we offer comprehensive tilt table testing in Maryland with:
- In-depth symptom analysis
- Advanced diagnostic equipment
- Personalized treatment plans
- Supportive care from a team that understands POTS
What Makes Our Testing Different?
Patient-Centered Experience
We know this test can be intimidating, especially if you’ve been dismissed or misdiagnosed in the past. We take your concerns seriously and explain every step of the process.
Convenient Location
Our clinic is located in Oakland, MD, with easy access for patients from across the state and surrounding areas.
Expertise That Matters
Dr. Sarah Diekman and our care team have helped hundreds of patients navigate complex autonomic disorders — many of whom were previously misdiagnosed.
Final Thoughts
Getting a diagnosis for POTS can be life-changing — but the journey starts with the right testing, done by the right team. If you’ve been searching for answers, struggling with symptoms, or need confirmation of what your body is telling you, a tilt table test may be the key to unlocking your next chapter.
We’re here to help you get there — with clarity, care, and real solutions.
Don’t wait to get the answers you deserve.
