Treadmill Stress Test Specialist

What is a treadmill stress test?

A treadmill stress test monitors your heart’s response to cardio-based physical activity, such as walking or jogging. During the test, the team connects you to an EKG monitor, which tracks how hard your heart is working. As you walk faster and faster, the test reveals any signs of blood-flow problems within your heart. This simple, yet effective, test also tells the team which type of exercise is right for you.

What does a treadmill stress test check for?

Since it’s designed to monitor your heart during physical activity, the team recommends a treadmill stress test if you are showing signs of any heart-related health concerns. Your doctor may administer a treadmill stress test if you:

• Display signs of coronary artery disease
• Show symptoms of arrhythmia
• Already have a heart disorder and need treatment
• Are at risk of developing heart disease

The team also advises stress tests to determine how effective previous procedures have been in improving your heart health. This vital test can tell them if you need additional tests or procedures in the future.

What happens during a treadmill stress test appointment?

While the test itself only takes about 15 minutes, allow at least a full hour for the full appointment. This gives you plenty of time to prepare, get set up, and talk to your doctor about any questions or concerns you have regarding the test.

Prior to the test, your doctor asks you a few questions regarding your level of activity, especially if you regularly participate in strenuous exercise. This helps determine how fast you are expected to walk or jog on the treadmill during the test. Your physician also listens to your heart and lungs before you begin walking.

Next, the team places sticky electrodes at predetermined areas on your chest, arms, and legs. Wires connect these electrodes to an electrocardiogram machine, which tracks the electrical signals in your heart. The team also measures your blood pressure throughout the test for accuracy.

Your pace during the test gradually increases. Depending on your level of physical activity, you start out at a slow walk and build up to a fast walk or jogging pace. The test ends when your heart rate reaches a certain target level.

A treadmill stress test reveals vital information regarding your heart health. To find out if a stress test is right for you, call Americare Medical Center or book an appointment online today.