Your doctor recommended an exercise stress test, but what exactly is that? This test–sometimes referred to as an exercise electrocardiogram, treadmill test, graded exercise test, or stress EKG– shows how your heart responds to external stress, and can estimate your risk of having heart disease. It reveals issues, such as a decrease in blood flow to the heart from narrowing in the coronary arteries.
An Exercise Stress Test can detect:
- Blood supply to the heart during stress
- Abnormal heart rhythms
- Signs of coronary artery disease
- Heart-related causes of symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath or lightheadedness
- Safe levels of exercise
- Effectiveness of previous heart-related procedures or medications
During the test, you’ll walk on a treadmill or ride a stationary bike, with gradually increasing speed and difficulty. Your heart rate, breathing, blood pressure, electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG), and how tired you feel will be monitored throughout. As your body works harder, you need more oxygen, and the heart must pump more blood to deliver it. It’s normal to feel tired, breath heavily, and sweat.
The appointment lasts about an hour, with the exercise portion being no more than 15 minutes.
How should I prepare for the test?
- Don’t eat or drink anything except water within 4 hours of your test, and avoid consuming any caffeine for at least 12 hours before your test.
- Bring a list of the medications (with dosages) you currently take.
- If you use an inhaler for exercise, bring it with you to your test.
- Consult with your doctor about which medications you should or shouldn’t take ahead of the test, especially beta blockers and calcium channel blockers. Some medications should be avoided for up to 48 hours beforehand.
- If you have diabetes, your doctor may give you special instructions.
Dr. Ashraf and his medical team are happy to answer any additional questions you may have about exercise stress tests. We’re here to understand your overall condition and provide personalized treatment to help you be your best, and healthiest self.