Stress Test
OR
Cardiac (Heart) Exercise Treadmill Test
What is a Stress Test / Cardiac (Heart) Exercise Treadmill Test? What are the
benefits?
A Stress Test / Cardiac Exercise Treadmill Test is a test used to find out your exercise
capacity and state of your heart health. The results may assist a doctor to diagnosis
your heart condition or assess the effect of your medications. The results can also help
an exercise specialist to help you create an exercise plan.
What’s involved in the test?
You will be asked to walk on a motor driven treadmill. While you are walking, the slope
or speed will begin low and increase every 3 minutes. The total length of the test will
depend on your fitness level. The technician doing the test may stop the test at any
point if there are signs of weakness or changes in your heart rate, ECG, blood pressure
or if you show other symptoms. You may stop the test when you wish if you feel tired or
have any other discomfort. A physician will be nearby.
Electrodes will be put on your chest and you will have a blood pressure cuff on your
arm. The technician will record your heart rhythm, heart rate and blood pressure during
the test. The total test time will likely be under 30 minutes. About 10 minutes are
needed at the start of the test to prepare you, and then you will walk for 3-15 minutes.
The length of time you walk will depend on how you feel or how you are doing.
What are the risks?
There are few risks with the test, and complications are rare. Physical injury can occur
if you are not familiar with the equipment. Every effort will be made to explain the
nature of the exercise equipment prior to the start of the test. Changes that could occur
during the test are: abnormal blood pressure; fainting; falling; irregular, fast or slow
heartbeat; and in very rare cases, heart attack, stroke or death (less than 1 in 10, 000
cases). Trained staff along with the necessary emergency equipment are nearby if any
problems arise. If you have any questions or concerns about this test please speak to
your doctor. The test has limited accuracy (about 75% in men and less in women) and
does not guarantee optimal heart health.
Pretest instructions
‰ Avoid too much exertion or exercise on the day of the test.
‰ Avoid a heavy meal, caffeine, alcohol or nicotine within 3 hours of the test.
‰ Clothing should be loose, permit free movement and include good walking shoes.
Women should avoid restrictive undergarments.
‰ Continue to take your medications as usual unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
‰ Bring your medications or a list of your medications, including the dose and how
often you take them.
‰ Avoid using lotions and creams that might interfere with electrode contact.