What is a Treadmill Stress Test?

• A treadmill stress test records the heart’s electrical activity (rate and rhythm) during exercise.
• During the test a cardiologist and a technician are present.
• Electrodes will be placed on the chest the same as for an electrocardiogram (EKG).
• The patient will be asked to walk on a motorized treadmill.
• The speed and incline of the treadmill will be gradually increased.
• The doctor will be looking for changes in the EKG pattern and any symptoms that the patient may experience.
• The test will be stopped if the patient becomes too tired or has any symptoms such as chest pains.
• The test will last about 30-45 minutes.
• This test must be ordered by a dotter.

Why is a Treadmill Stress Test done?

• This test will help the doctor evaluate the patient’s cardiac condition related to:
  • Irregular heart rhythms.
  • If there is a decreased supply of blood and oxygen to the heart with exercise.
  • How hard the heart can work before symptoms develop.
  • How quickly the heart recovers after exercise.
  • The patient’s overall level of cardiovascular conditioning.
  • What the patient’s exercise target heart rate (THR) should be.

What preparation is needed?

• The patient must have nothing to eat except water 4 hours prior to the test.
• No caffeine or smoking at least 4 hours prior to the test.
• It is important for the patient to ask their doctor:
  • How to adjust insulin and food intake prior to the test if he or she are diabetic.
  • If he or she should take his regular medications the morning of the test.
  • If he or she is on a Beta Blocker, can he or she stop taking this medication 72 hours before the test as this is recommended for best results.
• Do not apply lotions, oils, or powers to the chest area.
• Wear comfortable clothing (shorts or pants with a shirt or blouse) and walking or jogging shoes.