A stress test is the one time you can be expected to exercise while at a doctor's appointment. A stress test uses exercise as a diagnostic and follow-up tool for many heart conditions, according to Aurora Health Care. This test monitors your heart's activity during moderate exercise. Due to the nature of this test there are policies and procedures in place to ensure safe and accurate test results.
Test Purpose
A stress test is used to determine if your heart works well even under strenuous conditions. During exercise, your body requires higher oxygen levels to circulate blood. To properly circulate blood, your heart must work harder. A stress test determines how well your heart can work under exercise conditions. A stress test is used to evaluate complaints of chest pain, to determine if coronary heart disease is present, to identify irregular heart rhythms, to determine a safe exercise level, to plan rehabilitation after a heart attack, and to monitor a heart's response to various heart procedures, according to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.
Physical Examination
Before undergoing your stress test, it is likely you will receive a physical examination from your doctor. Your doctor will review your medical history and review any current medications you are taking. You may be required to stop taking certain medications before your stress test. It is also likely that you will have a resting electrocardiogram. This test uses electrical currents to measure the heart's activity. An echocardiogram may also be completed. This test is an ultrasound that provides insight into the exact shape, size, motion and valve function of your heart.
Before the Test
Your doctor will provide an exact list of instructions before your stress test. Generally, you should not have caffeinated products for 12 to 24 hours before the test. Eating, drinking -- with the exception of water -- and smoking should stop three to four hours before the stress test. You should wear comfortable clothing, including tennis shoes. Remember to bring a list of all medications you are taking and a blood glucose monitor if you have diabetes.
During the Test
Stress tests are commonly completed with the use of a treadmill. Occasionally, your doctor will use a stationary bike. Before the test begins, a technician will place electrodes on your chest. The electrodes are small patches with wires that stick to your skin. He will take your resting blood pressure and you may have another electrocardiogram. You will begin walking on the treadmill. Your walk will start out slow and the doctor will ask you to increase your pace at various points during the test. Throughout the test, your heart rate, blood pressure and any symptoms will be watched closely. If you experience breathing difficulties or chest pain, the test will be stopped -- at this point your doctor will likely choose another testing option to reach a diagnosis. At the completion of the test, which generally lasts 15 minutes, your heart rate and blood pressure will be monitored as they return to a normal resting rate. You can expect to be at the testing facility for about an hour on the day of your test.
After Testing
When your stress test is complete, you will be able to resume all of your normal activities. A heart doctor will review the results of your stress test and send them to your primary care doctor. Results can be expected within one day.
