Stress Test of the Heart
A stress test is also called an exercise, heart, or cardiac stress test. This test
checks how your heart works under stress and can show if there is blockage
in your blood vessels. You will either be given medicine, or you will
exercise on a treadmill or an exercise bike.
Your doctor has scheduled you for a stress test with:
!
Medicine
!
Exercise
Arrive on time for your test. Plan on being here about 2 hours. The test
takes about 1 hour.
To Prepare
• For the stress test with exercise, bring walking shoes and loose-fitting
clothing so you can move easily. You can wear a hospital gown.
• Do not eat solid foods for 4 hours before your test.
• You may drink water, but do not drink liquids with caffeine. Caffeine is
in regular and decaf coffee, tea, chocolate, and soft drinks.
• Ask your doctor if you should take your medicines the morning of the test.
If so, take with sips of water only.
• Do not smoke or use tobacco for at least 4 hours before your test.
Smoking can affect your test results.
• Nitroglycerin tablets or spray may be used for chest pain as needed.
• Bring a list of your medicines. Be sure to include any prescriptions and
over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and herbs you take.
During the Test
• You are asked to change into your exercise clothes or a hospital gown.
• Small pads are put on your chest to check your heart rate. For men, chest