A cardio stress test is a noninvasive medical procedure that enables doctors to evaluate heart-related problems in patients. The test is common and extremely beneficial for its accuracy and ability as a diagnostic tool. A light cardio stress test is the same type of test, but better suited for some individuals.
Cardiac Stress Test
A cardio stress test, also known as a cardiac stress test, exercise stress test or treadmill test, is designed to take an in-depth reading of your heart rate to determine problems associated with angina, or chest pain, coronary disease or arterial blockages. Because of the test's accuracy, it can tell if your heart is working at normal capacity or if it is working harder than it should be.
Procedure
A cardio stress test involves a trip to a special facility or doctor's office where the proper equipment is located. A doctor or technician attachs several electrodes and monitors to your body that are attached to stress test machines and an EKG, or electrocardiogram. In some instances, a mask is applied to monitor oxygen consumption. The patient is then asked to walk, jog or run for a sustained time. A stress test measures the heart's ability under stress, such as when exercising.
Light Test
A doctor may perform a light cardio stress test for patients who are at higher risk of heart problems, such as cardiac arrest, or for elderly patients. A light test involves gentle walking on a treadmill instead of fast walking, running or jogging. A light test is still useful for at-risk patients, because even light exercise is capable of raising the heart rate for an accurate reading from the equipment.
Benefits
Even a light cardio stress test can help doctors make decisions about the health of your heart. When stressed, any problems with the heart are exacerbated and show up on the equipment used for the test. Some tests may even help doctors predict and prevent cardiac arrest in patients that show common cardiac arrest preconditions. Furthermore, a series of light cardio stress tests performed over time can help doctors monitor the effectiveness of certain medications or treatments.
