Stress Testing
stress cardiac evaluation.
Stress testing is a medical procedure used to evaluate how well your heart functions during physical activity. It is often employed to assess the presence of coronary artery disease (CAD) and to determine the heart’s response to stress. Stress testing is particularly useful in identifying abnormalities in blood flow to the heart muscle.
There are different types of stress tests, and the choice of which one to use depends on various factors, including the patient’s health status and the specific information the healthcare provider is seeking. Here are common types of stress tests:
Exercise Stress Test (Treadmill or Exercise ECG)
- Procedure: The patient walks or runs on a treadmill, gradually increasing the intensity.
- Monitoring: Electrodes are attached to the chest to record the heart’s electrical activity (ECG or EKG).
- Purpose: Assess how the heart responds to physical stress and identify any signs of reduced blood flow to the heart muscle.
Stress Echocardiogram
- Procedure: An ultrasound (echocardiogram) is performed before and after exercise or a pharmacological stressor.
- Monitoring: ECG is used for continuous monitoring, and echocardiography provides images of the heart.
- Purpose: Assess heart function, including the pumping capability and identify any abnormalities in blood flow.
The stress test helps healthcare providers evaluate symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or irregular heartbeats, especially when they occur during physical activity. It also assists in assessing the overall cardiovascular health of patients and guiding further diagnostic and treatment decisions.
It’s important to note that stress testing is just one component of a comprehensive cardiac evaluation. The results of the stress test, along with other clinical information, imaging studies, and patient history, contribute to a thorough assessment of heart health. If you are scheduled for a stress test, your healthcare provider will provide specific instructions and information tailored to your individual health needs.