Exercise testing for patients helps physicians assess how a person’s body is performing under stress. Also known as a cardiac stress test or an exercise tolerance test, it provides a safe environment in which to evaluate a patient’s physical capabilities and heart performance. The patient uses exercise to stimulate his or her heart, typically through the use of a treadmill or an exercise bicycle, while physicians are present to evaluate the results.
An exercise test allows a person’s resting heart rate to be compared to his or her heart rate under stress. These results can help to determine a risk of heart disease, diagnose coronary artery disease, and point the medical team in the right direction for further evaluation. This test is considered the first choice by the American Heart Association for patients with additional risk factors for coronary heart disease. These include smoking, diabetes, hypertension, and family history of heart disease and high cholesterol. They are not, however, recommended as part of a regular care routine for low-risk patients.
Those with an uncontrolled arrhythmia or unstable angina should not be submitted to stress tests. Similarly, those with symptomatic pulmonary embolisms, aortic stenosis, or pericarditis should not undergo this type of testing. Exercise testing for patients should only be performed when deemed necessary by their physician. Adverse effects can include chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, and other signs of overexertion. Mild hypotension caused by adenosine and dipyridamole can be a risk in some patients.
Stress tests should be stopped and the patient evaluated if symptoms of extreme stress occur. These include increases in nervous system symptoms such as dizziness and ataxia, as well as severe anginal pain or sudden decrease in blood pressure. If the patient’s skin becomes extremely pale, the test must also be stopped. Qualified medical professionals must be on site to monitor both the patient and the results of the test. Health facilities such as the North American Emergency Medical Center have the proper equipment and trained professionals to administer exercise tests and utilize them in patient diagnosis. Anyone undergoing a stress test should consult with his or her physician about any chronic medical conditions before testing.
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