Exercise stress test

Exercise stress test is a test used to provide information about how the heart responds to exertion. It usually involves walking on a treadmill or pedaling a stationary bike at increasing levels of difficulty, while the patient's electrocardiogram, heart rate, and blood pressure are monitored.

Overview

The Exercise stress test is a common diagnostic test in cardiology. It is used to evaluate the heart's response to physical exertion, and can help to identify various forms of heart disease. The test is typically performed on a treadmill or a stationary bicycle, and the patient's heart rate, blood pressure, and electrocardiogram are monitored throughout the test.

Procedure

The patient is connected to equipment to monitor the heart. The patient walks on a treadmill or pedals a stationary bike while the intensity of the exercise is gradually increased. The test continues until the patient reaches a target heart rate, or until the patient develops symptoms that do not allow continuation of the test.

Uses

The Exercise stress test is used to:

• Determine the likelihood of coronary artery disease
• Evaluate the effectiveness of cardiac treatments
• Determine the patient's safe levels of exercise
• Predict the risk of dangerous heart-related conditions such as a heart attack

Risks

While the Exercise stress test is generally safe, there are some risks associated with it. These include:

• Abnormal heart rhythms
• Heart attack, in rare cases
• Dizziness or fainting

Results

The results of the Exercise stress test can help the doctor to:

• Understand the patient's symptoms
• Determine the likelihood of coronary artery disease
• Plan treatment for heart disease

See also

• Cardiology
• Coronary artery disease
• Electrocardiogram

Exercise stress test Resources
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