Treadmill stress test
The treadmill stress test is a basic cardiology test that helps the physician determine how the heart responds to the effort. As the effort increases, the body needs more oxygen. This results in the heart pumping more blood. The test will show if blood supply to the heart arteries (coronary arteries) is reduced. It will also help the physician determine the type and intensity of exercise that is appropriate for each patient.
A treadmill stress test is necessary:
- To diagnose coronary heart disease
- To assess symptoms that are likely to be related to heart problems (chest pain, dyspnoea, dizziness)
- To evaluate the effectiveness of previous cardiac interventions. – To evaluate the effectiveness of medication the patient receives for his heart.
- To predict the likelihood of a heart attack.
- To assess the level of exercise that is safe for the subject.
- And of course in the context of a more general assessment of the health of the subject, especially when starting a new exercise program.
- To diagnose coronary heart disease
- To assess symptoms that are likely to be related to heart problems (chest pain, dyspnoea, dizziness)
- To evaluate the effectiveness of previous cardiac interventions. – To evaluate the effectiveness of medication the patient receives for his heart.
- To predict the likelihood of a heart attack.
- To assess the level of exercise that is safe for the subject.
- And of course in the context of a more general assessment of the health of the subject, especially when starting a new exercise program.
Adherent electrodes are attached to the examined person and connected to an electrocardiograph. In this way the rate is monitored throughout the stress test. The test is divided into stages of 3 minutes, with gradually increasing speed and slope of the treadmill. This way it is achieved the target rate or the development of symptoms. The procedure is similar to climbing a small hill. Blood pressure is measured at regular intervals while the physician is constantly adjacent to the examined person. Exercise can be stopped at any time if needed. At the end of the exercise, the subject will remain lying for a few minutes until the pressure and pulse are restored.
The doctor who performs the test must be informed of the medical history. Prior to the test, he should be informed of potential symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath. It is advisable to have a heart triplex to rule out certain situations that may be dangerous. Do not take food for 2-3 hours before the treadmill stress test, and it is advisable to avoid smoking. Clothing and footwear should be suitable for walking
The treadmill stress test is generally considered safe. This is achieved by good patient preparation, proper history taking and complete clinical examination.
This results in a proper assessment of the risk. But the risk is existent.
Angina, fainting, syncope, myocardial infarction, arrhythmias are some of the most serious complications.
There is no particular limitation and the examined person can continue his normal activities.
