Consult an Expert about a Cardiac Stress Test
Your heart works hard to retain a continuous supply of oxygen and nutrients all over your body. Nothing can deter it from its function. Even if you get sick, it will continue to do its best to perform, but to what extent? That’s what a cardiac stress test aims to determine.
Don’t put your heart in danger by stalling. If you require a cardiac stress test, you can rely on Apex Heart and Vascular Center to execute it reliably for you. We have a team of experts that can help you overcome your existing condition and treat any heart problems connected to it at the same time.
Common Questions You May Have About a Cardiac Stress Test
What is a cardiac stress test?
Also known as the exercise test or treadmill test, this procedure is performed in order to review how well your heart is able to keep up during strenuous activities (when your body requires more oxygen). A cardiac stress test is also able to aid doctors in giving a more accurate diagnosis and an appropriate exercise plan. On top of that, it also helps in determining the presence of reduced blood supply in your body.
Apex Heart and Vascular Center performs the said test either through the use of a treadmill or an injectible vasodilator. The second option is often preferred for patients who are unable to complete the given exercise due to certain medical problems.
As the test continues, both your blood pressure and heart rate will be continually monitored to give the most accurate result.
What preparations are required for a cardiac stress test?
The preparations needed for a cardiac stress test are fairly simple.
All you need to do is:
- Fast for at least three hours before the procedure.
- Avoid consuming food or drink that contains caffeine at least twelve hours before the test.
- Refrain from taking certain medications (depending on your physician’s advice).
What reasons give rise to the need for a cardiac stress test?
A cardiac stress test is usually requested by a physician in order to:
- Determine if symptoms (shortness of breath, chest pain, lightheadedness, etc.) are related to a heart problem.
- Diagnose coronary heart disease.
- Review the efficacy of a procedure done to enhance coronary artery circulation.
- Learn the risk of a possible heart-related condition (such as a heart attack).
- Know the appropriate level of exercise suited for an individual.