What is it?
Exercise testing (or ETT) is done to see how your heart functions while exercising on a treadmill or an exercise bike. During the test, the patient's heart rate, breathing, blood pressure and the electrocardiogram (ECG) are monitored.
The exercise stress test shows the doctors how well your heart handles the increased stress brought on by exercise. It confirms a diagnosis of coronary heart disease or angina, detects low levels of blood supply to the heart, predicts risk of future heart problems and leads to the decision of what treatments are needed.
How it is done?
A technician puts electrodes on your chest with adhesive patches and a gel that conducts electrical impulses. The wires from the electrodes are attached to the ECG, and electric activity from the electrodes is recorded.
You will have several resting ECGs before the actual testing begins. These initial tests are compared with the ECGs taken during exercise. Blood pressure is monitored throughout all of the tests.
Why is it done?
This test will help the doctor evaluate the patient's cardiac condition related to:
- Irregular heart rhythms
- If there is a decreased supply of blood and oxygen to the heart with exercise
- How hard the heart can work before symptoms develop
- The patient's overall level of cardiovascular conditioning
- What his exercise target heart rate (THR) should be
At least once a year for men above 35 years of age and women above 45 years of age.
Preparation
You are not allowed to eat, drink, or smoke for a couple of hours before the test. Any medications that you take should be reported to your doctor. Wear comfortable clothing and tennis shoes.