If the blood pressure falls too low, there is not enough blood flow to the brain and the person faints. When the person faints and is then in a horizontal position, it is easier for the blood to reach the brain and the person wakes up. The tilt table test is one test used to see if vasodepressor syncope is the cause of fainting. During the test, the individual is placed on a circle bed frame, like the one used for a person who has injured their spinal cord. This type of bed allows the person to be positioned lying flat and then upright without any effort on their part. The blood pressure and heart rate are continuously measured. If the person does not faint with positioning alone, an intravenous medicine called Isuprel (EYE-soh-prehl) is given. The test is considered positive and stopped, if the person faints or feels like they are about to faint. If the test is positive, medications may be prescribed by a cardiologist to treat the problem.

Sometimes these fainting or near fainting spells are controlled with medication.  All patients experiencing these symptoms are encouraged to increase fluid (water) intake and restrict the drinking of soda, coffee and tea.  Patients should carry water with them at all times.  Our office will make arrangements with the schools to permit patients to carry and drink water during school hours.  In many cases patients have been able to reduce the onset of fainting or near fainting by increasing the amount of water they drink daily.  Drinking more water is a healthy habit that everyone can benefit from.