5 Signs You Need a Stress Test

5 signs you should get a Stress test Done

Have you been prescribed a stress test? Want to get a clear idea of the test procedure, prior preparation and signs you need a stress test?

Go through this insightful blog for an all-inclusive overview of the stress test.

What is a Stress Test?

Also known as exercise stress test, the stress test is conducted to assess heart function & blood flow in a patient with symptoms of heart disease. This test helps find out whether the heart is working in a normal manner when functioning at its maximum level.

It generally comprises jogging on a treadmill or pedalling a stationary bike while being hooked up to an ECG monitor that helps assess the heart’s activity during exercise. However, some doctors may prescribe medications that mimic the effects of exercise instead of subjecting the patient to actual exercise.

Why Stress Test is Done?

There can be various reasons behind a doctor recommending a stress test.

Some of the common reasons include:

Monitoring the rhythm of the heart
Evaluating the blood flow in a patient
Diagnosing a heart issue such as coronary artery disease
Treating a cardiovascular problem
Monitoring the effects of ongoing heart treatment
Creating a suitable fitness plan

Signs when you need to get a Stress Test Done

Signs & symptoms of heart disease that indicate the requirement of a stress test are:

Discomfort or pain near the heart area
Fast or uneven heartbeat
Shortness of breath
Feeling of dizziness or lightheadedness

How Stress Test is Done?

The following is the general procedure of the exercise stress test:

Your resting heart rate & blood pressure is measured by the lab assistant or nurse
Any hair over the chest region is shaved in case of males
Tiny electrodes (sticky dis are attached to your arms & chest
You are asked to start walking on a treadmill or pedalling a stationary bike at a slow pace
The pace is gradually increased and after regular intervals, you are enquired regarding experiencing any feeling of uneasiness
As the speed goes up, your heart is made to work at its hardest
The lab assistant notes down the readings of your heart function
The test typically concludes in around 10-15 minutes
However, in case you feel chest discomfort or experience any severe heart symptoms during the test, then the lab assistant may end the test immediately
Once the test comes to a conclusion, the lab assistant monitors your heart rate, blood pressure, and any symptoms for a few minutes

How to prepare for a Stress Test?

Preparation for the stress test commonly includes:

Avoiding food consumption a few hours before the test
Not consuming caffeine-containing products for 1 whole day prior to the test
Staying away from cigarette smoking & consumption of tobacco products
Informing the doctor about any ongoing medications as they may interfere with the stress test results
Staying relaxed and wearing comfortable shoes

Conclusion

The stress test offers highly insightful information about heart function that may help detect heart issues and safeguard your present & future cardiovascular health.

If you or anyone in your circle has been prescribed a stress test, then Clinico is the best diagnostic centre to visit! We are among the highly rated diagnostic centre and NABL accredited pathology labs in Mulund, Thane, Bhandup & Airoli.

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