NASA Lean Test
This test will be used as an at-home diagnostic to help to determine and optimize hydration status. It will help inform medication decisions related to the management of Orthostatic Intolerance, PoTS, etc. This test can be used to assess how water, electrolytes, compression, and medications affect orthostatic tachycardia and intolerance.
Preparation:
You will need the following supplies:
Blood pressure cuff
Independent continuous heart rate monitor such as Visible monitor or Pulse Oximeter (In case blood pressure readings error and do not provide reliable readings)
Clock, Watch, or other way to monitor time
Wall to lean on
Chair or bed nearby in case you start to get dizzy or light-headed
Prior to performing the NASA Lean Test, keep daily water and salt/electrolyte intake and medications the same for at least 1 week.
Test Instructions:
Stabilize salt/electrolytes and water intake for at least 1 week prior to the test.
DO NOT perform test during a crash or after a big meal
Take all daily medications as normal.
Lie down flat for 10 minutes in a calm environment.
Take blood pressure and heart rate readings, wait 1 minute
Take second blood pressure and heart rate reading (still supine/lying down).
Make sure readings are within 5 points of each other, if not, wait 1-2 minutes and take another reading until you have 2 similar readings. This is looking for the average resting blood pressure and pulse rate.
Stand up and lean against the wall. Your heels should be about 6 inches from the wall. Relax as much as possible.
Start 10 minute timer, record first standing blood pressure and pulse.
Repeat blood pressure and pulse readings every minute for 10 minutes.
Resist moving, shifting weight, talking, etc.
Monitor and note symptoms such as lightheadedness, dizziness, sweating, heart racing, swelling, etc.
If symptoms become overwhelming or you are afraid of fainting sit down and try to perform the remaining test sitting upright. Stop the test if symptoms become too uncomfortable or unbearable.
Repeat test as changes are made (electrolytes, water, compression wear, medications, etc) to assess progress.
