Stress Test Determines Health of the Heart
A stress test is used to measure how exercise affects the heart, and in
turn provides information about how healthy the heart is. The stress test
is used to determine the cause of chest pain, determine the exercise capacity
of your heart, or whether or not a new exercise program should be
undertaken. While walking on a treadmill or pedaling a stationary bike
during the test, the heart’s reaction to the body’s increased demand for
oxygen is measured. An electrocardiogram (ECG) is used to monitor the
changing activity of the heart, and blood pressure is also measured during
the test. The duration of the test is dependent upon the target heart
rate. Once this is reached, (or if chest pain occurs) the exercise portion of
the test is completed.
Before the test, the person being tested should refrain from eating,
consuming caffeine, or smoking for the three hours preceding. Medications
should not be discontinued unless the health care provider recommends
otherwise. Also, the person should wear suitable clothing and
footwear for exercise. The test may detect arrhythmias occurring during
exercise or coronary artery disease.