An exercise stress test evaluates how your heart performs under physical exertion. During the test, you’ll walk on a treadmill at gradually increasing speeds and inclines while your heart rate, blood pressure, and EKG (electrocardiogram) are continuously monitored.
This test is commonly used to:
- Assess the cause of chest pain, shortness of breath, or fatigue
- Detect coronary artery disease (CAD) or reduced blood flow to the heart
- Identify abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) that may appear only during exercise
- Monitor your heart’s response to cardiac treatments or medications
- Evaluate overall cardiovascular fitness and exercise tolerance
The exercise stress test is safe, non-invasive, and performed under close supervision by medical staff. It helps uncover heart issues that may not be apparent at rest and provides valuable information to guide diagnosis and treatment.