As a medical professional with expertise in cardiology, when conducting a stress test, we look for several key indicators to evaluate the heart's function and identify any potential issues. Here's what we typically look for:


1. Electrocardiogram (ECG) Changes: We monitor the ECG for any abnormalities in heart rhythm or signs of ischemia (inadequate blood supply to the heart muscle).

2. Blood Pressure Response: We check for a normal rise in blood pressure with exercise, as an abnormal response can indicate a problem.

3. Symptoms: We ask the patient about any symptoms they experience during the test, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or fatigue.

4. Exercise Capacity: The ability to exercise and the duration of the test can indicate the severity of heart disease.

5. Physical Response: We observe the patient's physical response to the stress, including breathing rate and overall stamina.

6. Recovery Time: How quickly the heart rate and blood pressure return to normal after the test can be indicative of heart health.

During the test, if there are any red flags such as severe chest pain, abnormal heart rhythms, or a drop in blood pressure with exercise, the test may be stopped immediately.

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They also show your heart valves and the movement of your heart muscle. Doctors use both types of stress tests to look for signs that your heart isn't getting enough blood flow during exercise. Abnormal test results may be due to coronary heart disease (CHD) or other factors, such as poor physical fitness.read more >>