Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 15, 2026

Tilt Testing with Combined Lower Body Negative Pressure: a "Gold Standard" for Measuring Orthostatic Tolerance
Published on: March 21, 2013
[Three patients with unrecognized orthostatic intolerance]
N van Dijk1, M P Harms, W Wieling
1Afd. Inwendige Geneeskunde, Academisch Medisch Centrum/Universiteit van Amsterdam.
Abstract:
Three patients, men aged 20, 50 and 56 suffered from orthostatic intolerance and syncope for years, despite visits to many doctors. Medical history and cardiovascular reflex investigation revealed problems with the orthostatic blood pressure regulation, caused by initial orthostatic dysregulation, vasovagal syncope and pure autonomic failure, respectively. A structured medical history as well as blood pressure measurements in the supine and standing positions can reveal the diagnosis in many instances of syncope. After confirming the diagnosis, the first concern is a clear explanation of the underlying problems to the patient. Treatment with volume expansion should be considered.
Related Concept Videos
Alterations in Blood Pressure
Hypertension (High blood pressure)
Hypertension occurs when blood pressure readings consistently exceed the normal range. It is diagnosed when systolic blood pressure (the top number, indicating pressure while the heart beats)...
Measurement of Blood Pressure
Angina II: Classification
Angina III: Clinical Manifestations and Assessment
Hypertension III: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Peripheral Arterial Disease II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Evaluation

