Treadmill Stress Test

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, has any symptoms such as chest pain.
• The test will last about 30 minutes.
• This test must be ordered by a doctor.

Why is a Treadmill Stress Test done?

• This test will help the doctor evaluate the patient's cardiac condition related to:
• Irregular heart rhythms
• If there is a decreased supply of blood and oxygen to the heart with exercise.
• How hard the heart can work before symptoms develop
• How quickly the heart recovers after exercise
• The patient's overall level of cardiovascular conditioning
• What his exercise target heart rate (THR) should be

What Preparation is Needed?

• Nothing to eat except water four hours prior to test
• No caffeine or smoking at least 4 hours prior to test.
• It is important for the patient to ask his doctor:
• how to adjust insulin and food intake prior to the test if he is a diabetic
• if he should take his regular medications the morning of the test
• if he is on a Beta Blocker, can he STOP taking this medication 72 hours before the test as this is recommended for best results
• Do not apply lotions, oils or powders to the chest area
• Wear comfortable clothing (shorts or pants with shirt or blouse) and walking or jogging shoes.

Registration:

• Pre-register 1-3 days prior to the day the test is scheduled. This will save considerable time on the day of test. Please call 310-517-4754 to pre-register.
• Plan to arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled time of the test.
• Enter the hospital through the main lobby.
• Go directly to the Cardiology Department which is located in the basement.
• Take the Silver elevators to the left of the lobby to the basement.
• If not pre-registered, plan to arrive an hour before the scheduled time of the test and first check in at the information desk in the main lobby in order to register.