Non-Invasive Testing:
Graded Exercise Testing (also known as "Stress Test")
This test is available at both our
Berkley Main office and Troy office. If you prefer this test be done at a
certain location, please inform the scheduler of this when you call to make
the appointment.
Graded Exercise
Testing, also known as "Stress Test"
WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF A REGULAR STRESS
TEST? The stress test is a diagnostic
exam used to evaluate your level of fitness, your heart rate and blood
pressure response to activity, and the adequacy of blood supply to your
heart muscle.
WHO ADMINISTERS THE STRESS TEST?
An exercise physiologist administers
this test.
HOW LONG WILL THE TEST TAKE?
The total amount of time this test will take is approximately one hour.
HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR MY TEST? -
Do not have any caffeine (even decaf!) 12 hours prior to the test!
- Bring a list of your current medications, including dosage and frequency.
Take your medications at your usual time, unless your physician has
indicated otherwise. You may take your medication with juice, milk or a
piece of toast if necessary.
- Can have water or juice before your stress
test, but you should abstain from solid foods for at least two (2) hours
prior to your test. If you are a diabetic, please follow your normal daily
diet regimen.
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes
for your stress test. Slacks or shorts are preferred and shoes should be
appropriate for brisk exercise on a treadmill or a bicycle.
WHAT WILL I
EXPERIENCE DURING THE STRESS TEST? - Before the test you will be asked to complete a personal history
questionnaire. This questionnaire must be updated each time you have a
stress test. You will also be asked to read and sign a consent form. This
form provides information regarding the benefits
and risks of the stress test. Please do not hesitate to ask any questions
that you
may have.
- Your skin will be
mildly rubbed in preparation for the test. Several electrodes will then
be placed on your chest. These electrodes will be connected to a monitor so
that your heart rate and rhythm can be watched closely throughout the test.
- You will exercise by walking on a treadmill or pedaling a stationary
cycle. Both modes
of exercise will start out slowly and then gradually increase in speed and /
or resistance. Your heart rate and blood pressure will gradually rise.
This is normal and both will be monitored along with your EKG.
- You will be encouraged
to continually exercise throughout the stress exam. If you experience any
unusual symptoms at any time (such as chest pain, shortness of breath or
lightheadedness) immediately tell the staff that is giving you the test.
Adjustments will be made to the exercise test, depending on your symptoms,
blood pressure or degree of fatigue. To get an accurate test, it is
important to exercise as long as you can. You will be monitored after the
stress test until your heart rate, blood pressure and EKG return to resting
levels.
