An exercise stress test is used to determine how well your heart responds during times when it’s working its hardest.

During the test, you’ll be asked to exercise — typically on a treadmill — while you’re hooked up to anelectrocardiogram (EKG)machine. This allows your doctor to monitor your heart rate.

The exercise stress test is also referred to as an exercise test or treadmill test.

An exercise stress test is primarily used to help your doctor determine if your heart receives enough oxygen and proper blood flow when it needs it most, such as when you are exercising.

It can be ordered for people who have been experiencing chest pains or other symptoms ofcoronary heart disease(also called coronary artery disease).

An exercise stress test may also be used to help determine your level of health, especially if you are starting a newexercise program. This allows your doctor to learn what level of exercise you can safely handle.

If you are a smoker over 40 years old, or if you have otherrisk factorsfor heart disease, you should talk to your doctor to see if an exercise stress test is right for you.

Stress tests are generally considered safe, especially since they’re done in a controlled environment under the supervision of a trained medical professional.

However, there are some rare risks, such as:

However, your risk of experiencing these reactions during the test is low, since your doctor will screen you for problems beforehand. People who are at higher risk of these complications — such as those with advanced coronary heart disease — are rarely asked to do the test.

Prior to your test, your doctor will perform a physical exam and ask about your complete medical history. At this point, tell your doctor about your symptoms, especially any chest pains or shortness of breath.

You should also tell your doctor about any conditions or symptoms that may make exercising difficult, such as stiff joints fromarthritis.

Finally, let your doctor know if you havediabetes, because exercise affects blood sugar. If you do have diabetes, your doctor may want to monitor your blood glucose levels during the exercise test as well.

Your doctor will give you complete instructions about how to prepare.

Food and medications

Your doctor may instruct you to avoid eating or drinking caffeinated beverages for 3 hours before the test. You should also avoid smoking.

You should only stop taking medications before the test if your doctor tells you to do so.

Clothing and personal items

On the day of the test, be sure to dress in loose, comfortable clothing. Something that is light and breathable is best.

Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, such as sneakers.

You’ll start off by walking slowly on a treadmill. The speed and grade of the treadmill will be increased as the test continues.

If you experience any difficulties — especially, chest pains, weakness, or fatigue — you may ask to stop the test.

When your doctor is satisfied with your results, you’ll be able to stop exercising. Your heart rate and breathing will continue to be monitored for a short while afterward.

Types of tests

There are three types of stress tests:

  • Exercise stress test. This is also called a treadmill test. You’ll walk in place on a treadmill while you’re hooked up to an electrocardiogram (EKG) machine that monitors your heart.
  • Nuclear stress test. This is also called athallium stress test. It’s the same as an exercise stress test, but you will receive dye via an intravenous line (IV) inserted in your arm. This allows your healthcare professional to view images of your heart using a special camera.
  • Stress echocardiogram. This is the same as an exercise stress test, but your healthcare professional will also hold a transducer against your chest. This wand-like device creates sound waves that make moving pictures of your heart.

Before a stress test

Report any chest pains or other complications you notice on the day of the test.

Before you begin exercising, you’ll be hooked up to the EKG machine. Several sticky pads will be attached to your skin under your clothes.

Your doctor or nurse will check your heart rate and breathing before you begin exercising. Your doctor may also have you breathe into a tube to test the strength of your lungs.

After a stress test

After the test, you’ll be given water and asked to rest. If your blood pressure rises during the test, your attending nurse may continue to monitor your blood pressure.

A few days after the test, your doctor will review the results with you. The test could reveal irregular heart rhythms or other symptoms that indicate冠状动脉疾病, such as blocked arteries.

If your doctor determines you may have coronary artery disease or other heart problems, they may begin treatments or order more tests, such as a nuclear stress test.