An exercise stress test is commonly prescribed by cardiologists and primary care doctors in order to diagnose heart ailments. Exercise stress tests involve light exercise on a treadmill while you are monitored by electrodes -- electrocardiograph or EKG. The electrodes monitor the activity of your heart. Your doctor will then interpret the results and create a treatment plan if necessary. It is important that you adhere to the test day guidelines to ensure accuracy.
Guidelines for Ordering Test
Your doctor may choose to order an exercise stress test for a variety of reasons. Exercise stress tests are most commonly used to detect coronary artery disease and abnormal heart rhythms. Stress tests are also beneficial in determining if the effectiveness of a cardiac care program -- including programs for individuals recovering from heart attacks. Exercise stress tests can also help determine a safe level of exercise for you to begin a program at. Doctors may also choose to order a stress test if you are older than 40 and have a family history of heart disease, high blood pressure or if you are a smoker.
Food and Drink Guidlines
Eating on the day of your stress test is acceptable. The Cleveland Clinic recommends that you avoid food and drink -- except for water -- for four hours prior to your scheduled test time. Foods and drinks that are high in caffeine should be avoid for a full day prior to testing. This includes chocolates, coffee, tea and other caffeinated beverages. Consume absolutely no nicotine on the day of your rest. Nicotine can lead to inaccurate test results.
Medication Guidelines
Talk to your doctor about the medications you are on prior to scheduling your exercise stress test. Avoid taking over-the-counter medications one full day prior to testing. Many over-the-counter medications contain caffeine. If you are on heart medication, your doctor may tell you not to take your medication on test day. If you use an inhaler, bring it to the test with you. Bring a list of your medications or the bottles of your medications to your test in the event of questions. You may also need them to fill out a medical history form.
Diabetic Guidelines
Alert the exercise stress test technician if you are a diabetic. Harvard Health Publications indicates that exercise can lead to a drop in blood pressure, which can be problematic for diabetics. To keep your sugar levels in an acceptable range, take your insulin prior to testing. Talk to your doctor about when you should eat and medications to control your diabetes on test day. Bring your glucose monitor to the test along with a snack. Test your blood sugar level immediately following the test. If your blood sugar is low, snack immediately.
