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Our heart is the engine that powers our bodies, and wisdom says to eat healthy, exercise regularly, and sleep well. Still, even the healthiest cardiovascular system will weaken over time, and it's important to stay alert for signs of trouble.If your symptoms arise when exercising or performing physical activities, then a stress test may be necessary to replicate conditions and pinpoint the issue. Call Capitol Cardiology Associates to schedule a stress test or arrange a consultation. Our licensed cardiologists are happy to address any questions or concerns you may have.
A stress test, also known as an exercise stress test or treadmill test, is a diagnostic procedure used to evaluate how well your heart functions during physical activity. It provides valuable information about your heart's response to stress and helps detect potential abnormalities or underlying heart conditions.
A stress test may be recommended if you have symptoms suggestive of heart disease or to evaluate your heart's function and response to exercise. Common uses include for:
In any case, you should follow the instructions of your physician or cardiologist. It can be beneficial to get second opinions, and the professionals at Capitol Cardiology Associates are always happy to help.
Before we begin, we take baseline measurements like your resting heart rate, blood pressure, and electrocardiogram (ECG) readings. Then, you’ll be asked to walk on a treadmill or pedal a stationary bike. The goal is to reach a target heart rate based on your age, fitness level, and medical history.
Measurements are also taken throughout the exercise. Your heart rate, blood pressure, and ECG will be continuously monitored to assess how your heart responds to the physical exertion. You are encouraged to report any symptoms you experience during the test, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or fatigue.After reaching the target heart rate or experiencing symptoms, the exercise phase will be stopped, and you will gradually cool down with slower movements.
This diagnostics service is doubly powerful as part of routine health checkups. Regular stress testing can help assess changes in heart function over time, identify new risk factors, and guide preventive strategies to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events.
For individuals undergoing treatment or lifestyle modifications for heart conditions, periodic stress testing allows for monitoring progress, adjusting interventions, and optimizing cardiac health outcomes.
Stress tests provide an opportunity for patient education, empowering individuals with knowledge about their heart health, risk factors, and proactive measures for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Call Capitol Cardiology Associates if you are curious about your cardiovascular system’s ability to take on some intense physical activity. We are here to help.
