Stress Test
A stress test is a diagnostic test used to determine the amount of stress your heart can manage before exhibiting abnormalities such as arrhythmia or ischemia. Stress tests are performed through a series of exercise activities during which your heart rate, breathing and blood pressure are monitored.
A stress test may be used for several different reasons, particularly if you are experiencing symptoms such as:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Rapid heartbeat
- Fluttering in the chest
- Identify effects of a recent heart attack
- Determine effectiveness of heart medications
- Help develop a safe exercise program
- Determine the cause for a lack of blood flow
During the stress test, electrodes are attached to the skin to record EKG results as you undergo increased levels of exertion while using a treadmill or stationery bicycle. Although a stress test is not always accurate and can produce "false positives" when diagnosing coronary artery disease, it is often a valuable tool in monitoring the heart during physical activity.