Exercise Stress Test

Stress tests are performed by heart doctors or cardiologists to determine the stress level that your heart can take before it develops an abnormal rhythm or shows decreased blood flow to the heart muscle.

The Benefit of Exercise Stress Tests

Have you ever wondered how your heart performs under pressure? Enter exercise stress tests, also known as clinical exercise stress tests or cardiac stress tests. These tests provide crucial insights into how your heart responds during exertion, offering valuable information about your cardiovascular health. This information is useful for:

  • Determining if you have coronary artery disease.
  • Identifying abnormal heart rhythms.
  • Determining whether your current cardiac treatment plan, if you are following one, is effective.
  • Developing a safe exercise program.

EXERCISE STRESS TESTS Brooklyn, NY

Preparing for an Exercise Stress Test

Before you step onto the treadmill for your exercise stress test, a few preparations can ensure a smooth experience. Make sure you’re physically up for walking on the treadmill, as this test involves a bit of a workout. If you have conditions like arthritis or diabetes, discuss them with your doctor beforehand. Your doctor might advise temporarily stopping certain medications and ask you to avoid eating an hour or two before the test.

Wear comfortable gym clothing or athletic shoes to make the treadmill session as easy as possible. Ready to take charge of your heart health? Schedule your exercise stress test with MKR Medical PC today and take a proactive step towards your heart health!

The Heart’s Challenge: Oxygen Demand and Blood Pumping

As your body works harder during the test, the demand for oxygen rises, and your heart must pump more blood. It’s like a workout for your heart. However, in individuals with blocked arteries, meeting this increased demand becomes a challenge, leading to symptoms like breathlessness, chest pains, and dizzy spells.

Any change in readings during or after the exercise period signals an abnormality in blood flow to the heart muscle. These tests are a diagnostic powerhouse, helping cardiologists identify potential issues and tailor treatment plans accordingly.

The Procedure: Monitoring Every Beat

Your Brooklyn cardiologist initiates the process by placing EKG electrodes on your chest to monitor your heart’s performance. Simultaneously, a blood pressure cuff on your arm measures your blood pressure. The baseline readings for an echocardiogram, EKG, and blood pressure are recorded at rest.

Performing Test, Stepping into Action!

Now, it’s time to hit the treadmill. The exercise begins gradually, with an increase in incline and speed. The goal? To push your heart to work at its maximum capacity. The treadmill stops either when your heart rate exceeds 85% of the target rate or if you develop symptoms.

Throughout the exercise, EKG recordings are taken every minute, providing real-time insights into your heart’s performance. Blood pressure readings are also monitored every three minutes during exercise and again at rest. It’s a comprehensive evaluation of your cardiovascular system.

Post-Workout Analysis: The Echocardiogram Finale

As the treadmill journey concludes, an echocardiogram is performed immediately after exercise. This additional layer of assessment ensures a thorough understanding of your heart’s condition, offering a complete picture for accurate diagnosis and personalized care. The entire test takes about 60 minutes, and depending upon the results, your vascular doctor in Brooklyn may or may not order further tests.

Ready to prioritize your heart? Contact MKR Medical PC today for options and schedule your stress test. Take a step toward a healthier you!

STRESS ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY Brooklyn, NY

Frequently Asked Questions – Exercise Stress Test Brooklyn, NY