Cardiac
Stress Test
What Is Cardiac Stress Test?
A Cardiac Stress Test is a
diagnostic procedure to record the heart's
electrical activity while it is under the stress
of increased physical demand. This is also known
as an exercise tolerance test.
Parts of the Body Involved:
Chest, Arms and Legs
Reasons for Procedure:
A cardiac stress test is used to
assess the heart muscle's response to the need
for additional oxygen, which occurs during
increased physical activity.
What to Expect
Prior to Procedure
Your doctor will likely do the
following:
-
Physical exam
-
Resting electrocardiogram (ECG,
EKG) – a test that records the heart's
activity by measuring electrical currents
through the heart muscle
-
Review of medications; some
should not be taken before testing
In the time leading up to your
procedure:
-
Do not eat or drink products
with caffeine for 12-24 hours before testing
-
Do not eat or drink anything
except water for 4 hours before testing
-
Do not smoke for several
hours before testing
-
Wear comfortable clothing
and walking shoes
-
Bring a list of your current
medications to the test
-
If you have diabetes, bring
your glucose monitor to the test
During Procedure
Continuous ECG and intermittent
blood pressure monitoring
Anesthesia
None
Description of the Procedure
The technician checks your blood
pressure, attaches electrocardiogram electrodes
(small adhesive patches with wires that connect
to an ECG machine) to your chest and arms, and
performs a resting ECG.
The cardiac stress test is done
either on a treadmill (most common) or a
stationary bike. You slowly start walking or
riding. At 2- or 3-minute intervals, the
technician increases the speed and elevation or
resistance, in order to make the exercise more
strenuous. The technician closely monitors the
ECG and your symptoms to assess the status or
your heart. Try to exercise until you are
exhausted or you have reached the target heart
rate.
