Progressive Autonomic Lab
We are excited to have the only Autonomic Lab in the Hampton Roads area. The state-of-the-art autonomic lab offers one of the most comprehensive autonomic testing throughout Hampton roads, including Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Portsmouth, Newport News and Hampton areas.
Components of Autonomic testing
Comprehensive autonomic testing includes:
- Quantitative Axon Reflex Test (QSART) for sudomotor function evaluation
- Deep breathing and Valsalva test for monitoring heart rage and BP variability
- Passive tilt table test
- Skin biopsy for evaluation of epidermal and sweat gland nerve fiber density
Indications for Autonomic testing
Autonomic testing is indicated in patients with variety of symptoms including:
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Syncope or presyncope
- Postural tachycardia
Autonomic testing is indicated in patients suspected of various disorders including:
- Orthostatic hypotension
- Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS)
- Small fiber neuropathies
- Autonomic neuropathy
- Neurodegenerative disorders
- Syncope
- Pure Autonomic failure
- Complex regional pain syndrome`
- Hyperhidrosis
Preparations:
- No alcoholic drinks for at least 14 hours before test
- No smoking, use of caffeine or any other nicotine products for 3 hours before test
- Wear loose clothing, do not wear stockings, binders or other constructive clothing.
- Eat a normal meal before the test except caffeine or chocolate.
- Do not apply any lotion, oil, cream, or perfume.
- If you are feeling dizziness or have a history of syncope, it will be better to have someone drive you to the test. Otherwise, you should be able to drive after the test.
- You might have to stop certain medications before the test. Please contact your referring physician or the lab to confirm the medications that might need to be stopped before the test.