As a healthcare professional with expertise in cardiology, I can explain the process of a heart stress test, also known as a treadmill exercise test or an exercise tolerance test. Here's a step-by-step guide on what happens during a heart stress test:
1. Preparation: Before the test, you'll be asked about your medical history and any medications you're taking. You'll also have your blood pressure and heart rate checked.
2. Electrode Placement: Small, sticky electrodes are placed on your chest to monitor your heart's electrical activity (EKG) during the test.
3. Baseline Recording: The test begins with a baseline recording of your heart rate and blood pressure while you're at rest.
4. Exercise Phase: You'll start walking on a treadmill or pedaling a stationary bike. The intensity of the exercise will gradually increase every few minutes.
5. Monitoring: Throughout the test, your heart rate, blood pressure, and EKG are continuously monitored.
6. Termination: The test will end when you reach a target heart rate, display signs of fatigue, or experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or other symptoms.
7.
Recovery: After the exercise, you'll rest while your heart rate and blood pressure are monitored until they return to near-normal levels.
8.
Results: The results are analyzed by a healthcare provider to determine if there are any abnormalities in your heart's response to exercise.
It's important to note that a heart stress test is a safe procedure for most people, but if you have certain health conditions, you should discuss the test with your doctor to ensure it's appropriate for you.
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