Stress Tests
Reviewed
Also called: exercise stress test, treadmill test, stress EKG, stress ECG, exercise tolerance test, exercise EKG
Stress tests show how well your heart works when under stress. Most stress tests monitor your heart using electrodes that your provider places on your body.
Specimen: Not applicable
Why this test may be ordered
- To find the cause of symptoms that may be from a heart problem, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, or dizziness.
- To help diagnose certain heart conditions, including coronary artery disease, angina, arrhythmia, heart failure, heart valve diseases, and cardiomyopathy.
- To find out how serious a known heart condition is, including the chance that you'll have a heart attack in the future.
- To help make treatment decisions for a heart condition.
- To check your heart health if you have a heart condition with new or worsening symptoms, are going to have surgery, are being treated for heart disease, have a high risk for heart disease, or plan to start an exercise program.
Preparation and collection
Wear comfortable shoes and clothing for exercise. Your provider will tell you what else to do before a stress test. If you take medicines or supplements, ask your provider if you should take them as usual. Don't stop taking any medicine unless your provider tells you to. If your test uses MRI, tell your provider about any metal you have in your body.
You'll exercise for about 10 to 15 minutes until you reach a target heart rate based on your age and fitness level. You should stop the test sooner if you develop chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, fatigue, or other symptoms. After all types of stress tests, you'll be monitored for 10-15 minutes or until your heart rate returns to normal.
Stress tests are usually safe. You will be closely watched during the test. If a problem develops, you'll be treated quickly. If you are or could become pregnant or are breastfeeding, talk with your provider before you have these tests.
Understanding results
A normal test result means no blood flow problems were found. If your test result was not normal, it may mean you have heart disease.
- Normal test result: A normal test result means no blood flow problems were found. Your heart is working well. Limitation: Your provider may stop the test if an EKG shows a problem with your heart. Next step: Always talk with your provider before starting any strenuous, new exercise.
- Not normal test result: If your test result was not normal, it may mean you have heart disease. Limitation: You may need more tests to find out how serious your condition is. Next step: Ask your provider to explain what condition you may have.
- Stress tests are usually safe, but you will be closely watched during the test. If a problem develops, you'll be treated quickly.
- Medicines that make your heart work harder sometimes cause symptoms such as chest pain, dizziness, or nausea.
- An IV may bruise your arm.
- The tracers and dyes used in nuclear and MRI stress tests may cause an allergic reaction, but this is rare.
- If you are or could become pregnant or are breastfeeding, talk with your provider before you have these tests.
What to do next
Ask your provider to explain what condition you may have. You may need more tests to find out how serious your condition is.
- What symptoms might indicate I need a stress test?
- What type of stress test is recommended for me and why?
- How should I prepare for the test, including any changes to my medications or diet?
- What are the possible risks or side effects of the test?
- What will the results mean for my treatment or next steps?
Evidence source
Source: U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus). Practices and reference ranges may differ in your country.