A state-of-the-art autonomic testing lab is available at Brigham and Women’s Faulkner Hospital. The lab offers some of the quickest, most comprehensive care available throughout New England.
Components of Autonomic Nervous System Testing:
Autonomic nervous system testing helps to determine the presence, severity and localization of autonomic dysfunction.
Includes: EKG, Sympathetic skin Response Test, Assessment of Heart Rate Variability to Deep Breathing, Evaluation of Hemodynamic Responses to Valsalva Maneuver, Tilt Table Test and Active Stand
Through these battery of tests, sudomotor, cardiovagal and adrenergic function are characterized. Non-invasive monitoring of beat-to-beat blood pressure and heart rate is performed throughout the test. Simultaneous EEG monitoring is an option if seizure vs. syncope is of concern.
Autonomic testing assists physicians with the diagnosis, evaluation and treatment of:
- Syncope
- Fatigue
- Hypotension
- Dizziness
- Postural tachycardia
- Abnormal sweating
- Poor hemodynamic compensation
- Movement disorders
- Neuropathies
- Bladder and bowel dysfunction
- Assessment of dysautonomia in patients with diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease
- Multiple-system atrophy
- Diabetes
- Monitoring disease progression of autonomic disorders and response to treatment
- Differentiation of psychogenic from organic conditions
- Evaluation of syncopal seizures
Results:
All autonomic studies will be interpreted and available within two weeks of the completed study.
Scheduling:
Complete this form and check the autonomic test series, then fax the form back to us at 617-983-7162.
For questions, call 617-983-7580.
