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Tests and diagnosis
By Mayo Clinic staffThe diagnosis of vasovagal syncope is often a matter of ruling out other potential causes of your fainting — particularly heart-related problems. These tests may include:
- Electrocardiogram. This test records the electrical signals produced by your heart. It can detect irregular heart rhythms and other cardiac problems that can cause fainting. In some cases, you may need to wear a portable monitor for at least a day or even for a month.
- Echocardiogram. This test uses ultrasound imaging to view the heart and look for conditions, such as valve problems, that can cause fainting.
- Exercise stress test. This test studies heart rhythms during exercise. It's usually conducted while you walk or jog on a treadmill.
- Blood tests. Your doctor may look for conditions, such as anemia, that can cause or contribute to fainting spells.
If there appear to be no heart problems causing your fainting, your doctor may suggest you undergo a tilt table test, which begins with you lying flat on a table. The table then changes position, tilting you upward at various angles, to see if these postural changes affect your heart rhythms or blood pressure.
