Hospital(s)
What is an exercise stress test?
The exercise stress test raises the heart rate by walking on a treadmill to determine if blood flow is reduced in the arteries that supply blood to the heart.
Before the procedure:
- Do not eat or drink for four hours before the test and avoid caffeine for 24 hours beforehand
- Wear comfortable clothes and sneakers
- Bring a list of current medications and ask your doctor which of your medications are okay to take before the test
During the procedure:
During the test small adhesive pads are placed on the upper body to monitor heart rate and EKG as you walk on the treadmill, which goes through a series of stages, gradually increasing in speed and incline. If needed, the treadmill can be slowed down or stopped at any time during the test. Blood pressure, heart rate and EKG are frequently monitored before, during, and after the test. The test is approximately one hour.