Stress Testing
Get your heart’s health tested
When you exercise, your heart works differently, so a stress test can help you determine how it works. A Stress Test can indicate problems with blood flow within your heart because it uses exercise to get your heart pumping harder and faster.
What happens during a Stress Test?
This test typically consists of walking on a treadmill or riding a stationary bike while your heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing rate are monitored by one of our cardiology specialists. Alternatively, you will be given a drug that mimics the effects of exercise.
If you have signs or symptoms of coronary artery disease or an abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia), we may advise a stress test.
What are its benefits?
Stress Testing can be beneficial because:
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It helps us orient treatment choices.
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It allows us to determine the effectiveness of heart treatment.
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It aids us in determining the severity of a pre-existing heart condition.
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Am I eligible for Stress Testing?We recommend this kind of test if you have had at least one of these: Shortness of breath Diabetes Chest pain Symptoms of limited blood flow to your heart A recent heart attack A recent heart procedure Feeling faint or fluttering heartbeat during exercise Symptoms of arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat)
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Is it a painful test?This is an absolutely painless procedure. There is, however, exercise involved, this is why you may slightly sweat.
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How long does it take?Including prep time and actual exercise testing, a Stress Test usually takes about an hour. Exercise testing takes about 15 minutes, where you'll walk on a treadmill or pedal a stationary bicycle.