Cardiac Rehabilitation
what is cardiac rehabilitation?
Cardiac rehabilitation is an individually monitored, structured exercise program designed to improve your body's ability to efficiently utilize oxygen and nutrients from your blood supply, thereby decreasing the workload on your heart.
You will begin slowly, at a rate that is comfortable to you, and progress slowly. Your program is written for you based on your tolerance level and medical needs.
Why should I attend?
The exercise program will increase your fitness level by improving your body's endurance and strength, allowing you to live a healthier life.
Stress Test
What is a stress test? Do I need a stress test?
A stress test (also called a treadmill test or exercise test) helps your doctor find out how well your heart handles work. As your body works harder during the test, it requires more fuel and your heart has to pump more blood. The test can show if there is a lack of blood supply through the arteries that go to the heart. Taking a stress test also helps your doctor know the kind and level of exercise that's right for you.
What happens during the test?
You are hooked up to equipment to monitor your heart
You walk at a slow pace on the treadmill
It tilts so you feel like you're going up a small hill
The speeds are changed to make you walk faster
You may be asked to breathe into a tube for a couple of minutes.
You can stop the test at any time if you need to
Afterwards you will sit or lie down and your heart and blood pressure will be checked
What is monitored during the test?
Your heart rate
Your breathing
Your blood pressure
Your electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)
How tired you feel
What equipment is used?
The electrocardiogram or ECG machine will record your heartbeat. Tiny wires or electrodes will be hooked up to your chest and arms or shoulders. Near the end, you may breathe into a mouthpiece that will measure the air you breathe out.
Is there a risk?
There is very little risk no more than if you walked fast or jogged up a big hill. Medical professionals are on hand in case anything unusual happens during the test.