Stress testing is used to evaluate exercise tolerance and determine if there is narrowing in an artery leading to the heart muscle-a warning sign of a possible heart attack. By comparing the electrical activity of the heart before, during, and after physical exercise, your doctor can determine how well the heart muscle is functioning during increased stress.
This service may be scheduled by by your physician. For more information, please contact 325-387-1171.
What is the test?
At the start of the test, your doctor places approximately 10 electrode patches on the skin of your arms, legs and chest (sometimes it is necessary to shave small areas of body hair in order to get a good reading). These electrode patches are hooked up to the electrocardiography machine, which displays the electrical activity of your heart. All the while, your blood pressure is monitored as well.
Your doctor will first take an EKG reading while you are at rest. Then, you will be asked to exercise on a treadmill (a stationary bike can also be used). The exercise will begin with a slow walk, then steadily the speed and incline will change to increase the workload on the heart. If at any time you feel faint, fatigue, short of breath, or experience chest pain, IMMEDIATELY alert the staff and the test will stop. EKG measurements will be taken continuously while you are exercising. Once you have reached a pre-determined, optimum heart rate (based on height, weight, gender, etc.), the procedure will end.
You will then relax in a “cool down” period, while EKG measurements continue to be taken.
How do I prepare for the test?
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Do not eat or drink for 2 hours prior to the test. This will help prevent the possibility of nausea and vomiting which may accompany vigorous exercise after eating. If you are diabetic or need to eat/drink with your medication, get special instructions from your doctor.
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Avoid any strenuous physical activity on the day of the test because you will need to exert yourself maximally.
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No smoking 2 hours prior to the test. Smoking may interfere with the test results.
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Wear loose and comfortable clothing and shoes that are suitable for exercise; women will wear a hospital gown and men will be asked to exercise bare-chested.
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Do not wear oils or lotions before your test. Small sticky patches (electrodes) will need to stick to your chest.
- Take your medications as prescribed unless your doctor has given you special instructions.
Where is the test performed?
In the Out-patient Testing Center. Present to the registration desk located at hospital main entrance.
How long does this test take?
A stress test varies in length depending on how long it takes to reach your optimum heart rate, and whether or not the test is terminated early due to fatigue, shortness of breath or chest pain. Usually, if the test is completed without a stoppage, it takes about 30 minutes:
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5 minutes for an EKG at rest
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15 minutes of exercising on the treadmill measuring the heart’s activity at stress
- 7 - 10 minutes measuring activity during the “cool down” period