Cardiac Stress Test
A cardiac stress test gives your doctor important information about your heart muscle and the blood circulation to your heart. It helps doctors detect the cause of certain problems such as palpitations, chest pain and difficulty breathing. Abnormal test results may indicate injury, disease or other problems.
During the cardiac stress test, electrodes (small metal discs that detect electrical impulses) are stuck with adhesive to your chest, and you will then walk or run on a treadmill. A cardiologist will analyze the graphs and images captured and share the results with your doctor.
Preparing for Your Cardiac Stress Test
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue taking your medications as usual. If you have been instructed not to take your medications, tell the technician before the test. The cardiac stress test will take approximately one hour.
- Please register 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment and bring your physician order.
- Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing and tennis shoes or walking shoes. Do not wear one-piece undergarments.
- Don’t eat food, drink caffeine or smoke for at least two hours before the test.
Cardiac stress tests are performed by appointment only.