Exercise/Stress Tests

An exercise test (sometimes referred to as a “stress test”) is a simple test that your family physician or cardiologist may recommend, to evaluate your heart health. This test can help identify the cause of unexplained chest pain and check for some types of heart disease.

You will be asked to walk (not run) on a treadmill or pedal a stationary bicycle, while hooked up to an electrocardiogram (ECG), which can measure the electrical activity of your heart and see how your heart responds to exercise. Your heart rate and blood pressure will also be taken.

You will be asked not to eat or drink anything for about three to four hours before the test. It is important that you wear comfortable walking shoes and loose clothing. Before the test, the ECG pads will be taped to areas on your chest and you will be connected to the ECG monitor. Your heart rhythm will be watched closely throughout the test. Your blood pressure and ECG will be taken while you sit, stand and lie down, as well as while you are walking on the treadmill or pedaling. If you are using a treadmill for your stress test, the treadmill will increase in speed and slant about every three minutes. You will usually be asked to walk for as long as possible, until you are tired or develop any symptoms. If you are using a stationary bicycle, the resistance will be increased gradually, making it increasingly challenging to pedal. The test continues until you reach your maximum heart rate or until you need to stop.

The entire test usually lasts for 15 to 30 minutes. After exercising, you will be able to rest, either sitting or lying down, while your ECG and blood pressure are monitored.

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