What is an exercise stress test?
An exercise stress test measures how the heart responds when the body works harder. Adhesive electrodes record an ECG while you walk on a treadmill or use other exercise equipment specified for the appointment. Heart rate, blood pressure, symptoms, and exercise response are monitored throughout the test.
The workload starts at a manageable level and increases gradually. The test is supervised, and the healthcare professional conducting it explains each stage.
Why a GXT may be requested
An exercise stress test can provide information that may not appear on a resting ECG. A healthcare provider may request it to assess symptoms that occur with activity, exercise capacity, heart rhythm during exertion, or the heart’s response after a diagnosis or treatment.
Whether this test is appropriate depends on the individual. The referring provider and testing team consider the clinical reason, ability to exercise, and relevant health information.
Preparing for your test
Wear loose, comfortable clothing and supportive shoes suitable for walking or exercise. The testing team needs access to the chest to place ECG electrodes, so choose clothing that is easy to change.
Instructions about eating, drinking, caffeine, smoking, and medication may vary. Review your appointment directions in advance. If anything is unclear, contact the clinic before the day of the test rather than changing your routine on your own.
What happens during the appointment
Before exercise begins, electrodes are placed on the chest and resting measurements are collected. The treadmill or exercise workload then changes in stages while staff monitor the ECG, heart rate, blood pressure, and how you feel.
Tell the testing team immediately about chest discomfort, unusual shortness of breath, dizziness, leg discomfort, or any other symptom. The test may end when enough information has been collected, a target level is reached, you need to stop, or the supervising professional decides to stop it.
Recovery and results
Monitoring continues for a recovery period after exercise slows or stops. Do not leave until the testing team says the appointment is complete.
The recorded information is reviewed before a report is issued. Ask how results will reach the referring healthcare provider and whether you need to arrange follow-up.
Confirm your appointment instructions
Food, drink, smoking, and medication instructions can vary. Follow the directions supplied for your test and never stop a medication unless an appropriate healthcare professional specifically tells you to.