Treadmill test

Treadmill Test

The Treadmill Test, also known as the Treadmill Stress Test, Exercise Stress Test, or Cardiac Stress Test, is a medical procedure primarily used to evaluate the heart's response to physical exertion. It involves the patient exercising on a treadmill while their heart rate, breathing, blood pressure, electrocardiogram (ECG), and feeling of well-being are monitored.

Procedure

The Treadmill Test begins with the patient walking on a treadmill at a slow speed. The speed and incline of the treadmill are gradually increased to simulate the effect of exercise on the heart. The patient's heart rate, blood pressure, and ECG are continuously monitored during the test. The test is stopped when the patient reaches a target heart rate, or if they experience symptoms such as chest discomfort, breathlessness, dizziness, fatigue, or abnormal changes in blood pressure or ECG.

Purpose

The primary purpose of the Treadmill Test is to diagnose Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) and other types of heart disease. It can also be used to determine the patient's fitness level, the effectiveness of cardiac medications, the need for further tests or procedures, and the prognosis of patients who have suffered a Heart Attack.

Risks

While the Treadmill Test is generally safe, it carries a small risk of serious complications such as a heart attack. Other potential risks include abnormal heart rhythms, fainting, and falls. Patients with severe heart disease or poor physical fitness may be at higher risk.

Interpretation

The results of the Treadmill Test are interpreted by a cardiologist. A normal result indicates that the heart is functioning well during exercise. An abnormal result may indicate the presence of CAD or other heart diseases.

See Also

• Electrocardiogram
• Coronary Artery Disease
• Heart Attack

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