When preparing for a cardiac stress test, it is important that you are ready. Your results need to be accurate which is why there are some diagnostic tests where you will be required a bit of preparation on your part. If you are not sure what to do before your stress test exercise, then you have come to the right place. Let these tips help you prepare before you step on that treadmill.
What Is A Stress Test?
A stress test is sometimes called the ‘treadmill test’ or ‘exercise test.’ This will help the doctor find out how your heart handles all the work. During the test, your body works harder and it will require more oxygen. The heart in return will pump more blood. This test will show whether the blood supply in the arteries which supplies the heart is reduced. This test will also give the doctor an idea on the level of exercise that is appropriate for you.
Stress Test Exercise – Who Needs It?
During the test, your heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, your electrocardiogram, as well as how tire you are will be monitored. But who needs these tests? A stress test exam will be recommended to those who are diagnosed with coronary artery disease, those with possible heart-related problems with known symptoms like chest pain, lightheadedness, and shortness of breath. These tests are also recommended to determine the safe level and the kind of exercise that your heart can handle.
What To Expect During A Stress Test
During your cardiac stress test, you will be hooked up to equipment that will monitor your heart. You will then need to walk slowly on a treadmill then the speed will be increased gradually. The treadmill is also tilted in purpose in order to produce the effect that you are going up a hill. You will then be asked to breathe through a tube. Remember that you can stop the stress test anytime. After the test is done, you will be asked to sit or lie down to check your heart and blood pressure.
Tips When Preparing For A Stress Test Exercise
The Cranbourne Medical Centre recommends that before your stress test exercise, you need to make sure that everything that was instructed by your doctor on how to prepare your body, should be followed accordingly. If you are not sure what to do, here are some tips that can help:
- Skip Your Meal. You need to have an empty stomach so it is best that you do not eat before your stress test.
- Your Medications. Remember that the stress test is designed to determine how your heart is handling all the stress during the exam. Some of your medications may slow down your heart rate so you should ask your doctor whether you need to skip any of your pills before your test.
- No Coffee. Coffee can make you active. This is why you have to skip your cup of joe for at least 24 hours prior to your test, especially if you are taking a nuclear or chemical stress test.
Are you ready to know how your heart is doing? Before your stress test, it is important that you understand the purpose of all of this. Do your research beforehand so you know what to expect. Do not hesitate to talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns regarding your stress test.
