What is a Treadmill Stress Test?
A Treadmill Stress Test records the heart’s electrical activity (rate and rhythm) during exercise. During the test, the 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 patient may be on the treadmill for up to 15 minutes, depending upon his level of recovery and cardiovascular conditioning. The test will be stopped if the patient becomes too tired, or has any symptoms such as angina (chest pain) or vertigo (dizzyness). The test will last about 30 minutes. Why is a Treadmill Stress Test done? This test will help the doctor evaluate the patient’s cardiac condition, relating to all of the criteria listed under EKG below, but including the following to determine: …..if irregu
