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Cardiovascular Associates of Maryland > Services - Cardiovascular Associates of Maryland > Exercise Stress Test - Cardiovascular Associates of Maryland

Exercise Stress Test - Cardiovascular Associates of Maryland


What is an exercise stress test?

Physicians use exercise stress tests to evaluate how a patient’s heart functions with increased stress on the heart during exercise.  The test is performed with the patient walking on a treadmill to exercise the heart.  The patient’s heart rate is monitored by electrocardiogram and can indicate if there is reduced blood flow in the arteries that supply blood to the heart due to a blockage.

Exercise Stress TestExercise stress tests are used to diagnose coronary artery disease, heart-related symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath, and to predict risk of heart attack. 

How is the exercise stress test performed?

Patients are asked to refrain from caffeine intake several hours prior to the test.  A technician will test the patient’s heart rate and blood pressure before the test.  Electrocardiogram (EKG) leads will be attached to the chest to monitor heart rate, and status during the stress test.

With EKG leads attached to the chest, the patient will begin walking on the treadmill to exercise the heart.  The speed and incline of the treadmill will be increased every three minutes until the patient says to stop.  The patient’s heart rate will be monitored by EKG throughout the test.  The test lasts a variable period of time depending on you level of conditioning and can be stopped at any time if the patient is experiencing:
  • Chest pain
  • Shortness of breath
  • Dizziness
The patient’s blood pressure and pulse are monitored constantly throughout the test. The doctor can review your test before you leave to either reassure you or suggest if further evaluation may be necessary.

 

 

Cardiovascular Associates of Maryland

2021B Emmorton Road
Suite 110
Bel Air MD 21015

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