Information on Stress Tests

Your doctor may suggest an exercise stress test to evaluate the health of your heart or for diagnostic reasons. According to the American Heart Association, depending upon the results of your tests, it may be recommended that you complete a nuclear (thallium contrast) stress test which provides additional detail about your condition.

Purpose

• Aside from a routine examination, you may take a stress test to diagnose specific symptoms (chest pain, breathing difficulties) that may be related to a heart condition or the for the diagnosis of coronary artery disease. It may also be done to determine the level of exercise that is safe for you.

Preparation

• For three hours prior to your stress test you should not eat, drink anything with alcohol or caffeine, or smoke. You should dress for exercise, wearing loose fitting clothing and comfortable shoes.

Test

• You will be asked to walk on a treadmill or pedal on a stationary bicycle, while you are connected to an electrocardiogram (EKG) monitor to measure your heart's response to the exercise. Your blood pressure will also be monitored throughout the test. The duration of the test is until you have reached a target heart rate or until you are unable to continue.

Results

• Normal results mean that your heart rate increased appropriately for your age and physical condition. Abnormal results may show arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat) during the test, lack of physical exercise or the possibility of coronary artery disease (blockage).

Risks

• According to MedlinePlus, although it is not common, some people may experience chest pain if there is a heart-related condition or they may faint. In rare cases, a heart attack or serious irregular heart rhythm could occur.

Considerations

• Following your test, you will be monitored for an addition period of time, usually about 10 to 15 minutes, until your heart rate has returned to normal.