What to Expect During a Cardiac Stress Test Procedure

If your doctor recommends a cardiac stress test, you may wonder what to expect. This standard test evaluates how your heart performs under stress, helping diagnose potential cardiovascular conditions and issues, such as coronary artery disease (CAD).

During the procedure, you’ll either walk on a treadmill or receive medication to stimulate your heart while your vitals are monitored. How long a stress test takes depends on which one your doctor administers, but most tests last 10 to 15 minutes, with patients resuming normal activities afterward. 

As with any health test, however, being prepared can help ease concerns. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know for a smooth and accurate cardiologist stress test.

What Is a Stress Test For Your Heart?

A cardiac stress test is a diagnostic procedure to evaluate how well your heart functions under physical exertion. It helps doctors detect potential heart conditions, such as blocked arteries, irregular heart rhythms, or overall cardiovascular fitness. 

Typically, the test involves walking on a treadmill for those who are physically able to. If patients are unable to walk on the treadmill, other options include medication to induce the stress test while monitoring their heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels. However, other types of stress tests are available for those who need them.

Types of Cardiac Stress Tests

There are several types of stress tests, and which one your cardiologist recommends for you depends on your unique situation. Generally, you’ll undergo one of these stress tests:

• Routine Exercise Treadmill Stress Test: This is the most common type of stress test. You walk on a treadmill while your heart rate, blood pressure, and ECG (electrocardiogram) are monitored.
• Nuclear Stress Test ( Myocardial Perfusion Imaging with treadmill exercise or medication-induced): This test involves injecting a small amount of radioactive tracer into the bloodstream to create detailed images of blood flow to the heart. 
• Stress Echocardiogram: This test combines an exercise or pharmacologic (medication) stress test with ultrasound imaging of the heart. The ultrasound captures images before and after stress to evaluate heart function, valve performance, and blood flow.

How to Prepare for a Cardiac Stress Test Procedure

Your cardiologist may provide specific instructions for preparing for your stress test based on the type. These general guidelines include adjusting your diet, medications, and clothing before the test. 

More specifically, preparation instructions for a stress test typically include:

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing and athletic shoes suitable for walking or exercise.
• For at least 24 hours before the test, avoid caffeine, including coffee, tea, chocolate, and sodas.
• Avoid large meals or excessive liquids within three hours before the test to prevent discomfort.
• Follow your doctor’s medication instructions—you may need to adjust some before the test.
• Refrain from smoking or using tobacco products for several hours before the test.
• Bring a list of your current medications. 

Following these guidelines will help ensure a smooth and effective cardiac stress test experience with the most accurate results.

Cardiac Stress Test Results and Follow-Up

Cardiac stress test results are usually normal or abnormal. 

• Good Result (Normal Test): A normal stress test means your heart functions well under stress, with no signs of restricted blood flow, abnormal rhythms, or concerning blood pressure changes. 
• Abnormal Result (Potential Concerns): If the test shows certain changes in your ECG, blood pressure irregularities, cardiac imaging, or symptoms like chest pain, dizziness, or extreme shortness of breath, it may indicate reduced blood flow to the heart or an underlying heart condition. 

What Warrants Follow-Up?

If your stress test is abnormal, you should follow up with your cardiologist for further individualized recommendations.

They may also recommend:

• Lifestyle and Medication Adjustments: If mild concerns are found, your doctor may suggest lifestyle changes, such as a heart-healthy diet, exercise modifications, or medication adjustments, to manage risk factors.

• Further Testing: Further testing may include imaging studies such as a nuclear stress test, echocardiogram, or cardiac MRI to assess blood flow and heart function. In some cases, a coronary angiogram may be recommended to examine the arteries for blockages and guide further potential treatment.

• Immediate Treatment: In cases of significant abnormalities suggesting severe blockages or heart disease, more urgent interventions like a heart catheterization, stent placement, or even surgery may be necessary.

Your doctor will discuss the next steps based on your results, ensuring you receive the appropriate care to maintain or improve your heart health.

Empower Your Heart Health: Schedule Your Stress Test Now

While it can seem overwhelming, a stress test is not something to fear—it’s simply a way for your cardiovascular doctor to gather vital information to ensure you receive the best possible care. Understanding what to expect before, during, and after the test can help you feel more prepared and at ease. 

If you’re ready to schedule your cardiac stress test, contact us today. Our Central Florida cardiology clinic is here to partner with you to improve your heart health and understanding.