TREADMILL STRESS TEST
Cardiac stress tests compare the coronary circulation while the patient is at rest with the same patient's circulation during maximum physical exertion, showing any abnormal blood flow to the myocardium.The results can be interpreted as a reflection on the general physical condition of the test patient. This test can be used to diagnose coronary artery disease (also known as ischemic heart disease) and assess patient prognosis after a myocardial infarction (heart attack).A doctor or trained technician performs the test.
The cardiac stress test is done with heart stimulation, either by exercise on a treadmill, pedaling a stationary exercise bicycle ergo meter, or with intravenous pharmacological stimulation, with the patient connected to an electrocardiogram (ECG).
A cardiac stress test also refereed to as a exercise stress test , treadmill stress test and graded exercise test.
Your doctor uses the test to:
- Help to assess blood circulations to heart in resting and in stress condition
- It also checks functional capacity of heart after angioplasty or bypass surgery.
- Learn how your heart medications are working
- Find out if it's likely that you have coronary heart disease and need more testing
- Help you develop a safe exercise program
- Take light breakfast before the test.
- Don’t drink or eat anything with caffeine for 12 hours before the test.
- If you use an inhaler for your breathing, bring it to the test.
You may also be asked to stop taking other heart drugs on the day of your test. If you have questions about your meds, ask your doctor. Don’t discontinue any drug without checking with him first.