Autonomic Function Testing

An autonomic function test is also known as an autonomic reflex screen or an autonomic response test. This test is non-invasive and looks at how the nervous system controls sweating, heart rate, and blood pressure.

Patients who are suspected of a disorder of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) are asked to complete autonomic testing.

The first part of the test is called a quantitative sudomotor axon reflex test (QSART). During this test, the patient is asked to do activities to stimulate the ANS to create changes in heart rate, breathing, blood pressure, and sweating while in a controlled setting.

The second part is a cardiovascular autonomic test with head-up tilt. The tilt table test measures changes in blood pressure and heart rate when the body changes position.

Both parts of the test are designed to take physiological measurements and discover evidence of dysautonomia.

Autonomic function testing is ordered for patients who present with some of the following symptoms:

• Orthostatic intolerance

• Sweat disorders

• Recurring fainting or syncope

Follow-up testing may be required in patients who have already been diagnosed with:

• Dysautonomia

• Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)

• Neurogenic orthostatic hypotension

• Small fiber nerve dysfunction

At Stanislaus Cardiology, patients can receive complete autonomic function testing and treatment for autonomic disorders.