Treadmill

A treadmill exercise stress test is used to determine the effects of exercise on the heart. Exercise allows doctors to detect abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) and diagnose the presence or absence of coronary artery disease.

This test involves walking in place on a treadmill while monitoring the electrical activity of your heart. Throughout the test, the speed and incline of the treadmill increase. The results show how well your heart responds to the stress of different levels of exercise.

What is a stress test?

A stress test is a very commonly performed test to learn:

• How well your heart pumps blood.
• Whether your heart is receiving an adequate blood supply.
• How you perform on physical activity (riding a treadmill or stationary bike) compared with other people your age and sex.
• If your symptoms (chest discomfort, shortness of breath, feeling like your heart is racing or even dizziness) can be reproduced while performing physical activity.

This makes it easier to identify and evaluate certain heart issues, such as:

• Issues with your muscle or valves.
• Adequate blood supply to your heart muscle.
• Electric stability of your heart at rest and during exercise.
• Cardiac stress tests help healthcare providers determine whether you need additional — often more invasive — testing to confirm a diagnosis or if treatment might lower your heart attack risk and make you feel better.