Stress Test (Exercise Treadmill Test or ETT)
Your doctor has asked that you have a stress test. This pamphlet answers some of the questions you may have about the test.
Purpose of the test
- To check the heart rate (number of beats per minute) when you exercise.
- To check the regularity of the beats (the heart rhythm)
- To check for any reduced blood supply to the heart
- To check the blood pressure response during exercise
- To check the effects of drugs or devices such as a pacemaker
- To determine the kind and level of exercise that you should do.
Description of the test
A stress test, called an exercise treadmill test or ETT, measures the electrical activity of the heart during exercise.
You will be asked to remove your clothing from the waist up and to wear a patient gown. You will sit on the side of the bed. A number of electrodes (adhesive patches) will be attached to your body. Before attaching the electrodes, the skin will be cleaned and, if necessary, the hair shaved or clipped. When first applied, the electrodes feel cold. The electrodes will be attached to the stress test machine (treadmill or bike). You will have an ECG done and your heart rate and blood pressure will be recorded before starting the test.
The technologist will explain the test to you. You will be instructed how to safely exercise on the treadmill. The treadmill will be started at a slow “warm-up” speed. You will then be asked to walk on the treadmill (a bike may be used if you are unable to use a treadmill). The treadmill speed and slope (incline) are increased every few minutes according to a preprogrammed protocol that dictates the precise speed and slope. Each interval is known as a Stage. The technologists will warn you before the treadmill goes into the next stage.
Your blood pressure will be recorded during each Stage of the test and after the test has been stopped. It is important to exercise as long as you possibly can. The treadmill is stopped when you are exhausted, or if you develop significant symptoms that stop you from continuing, an abnormal blood pressure response, or abnormal changes on the monitor. It is important that you tell the technologist if you develop any abnormal feelings such as chest discomfort or shortness of breath. Please note that the systolic (upper) blood pressure normally rises during exercise.
The risk of the stress portion of the test is very small and similar to what you would expect from any strenuous form of exercise (running up a flight of stairs, waling briskly, etc.). Experienced medical staff is in attendance to manage rare complications such as sustained irregular heartbeats, unrelieved chest pain or even a heart attack.
How long does the test take?
About 60 minutes. Allow 2 hours for parking in case of delay.
What preparation is required?
- Do not apply skin cream or lotion to your arms, legs and body before the test.
- Do not eat or drink for three hours before the test. This reduces the likelihood of nausea (feeling sick to the stomach) that may result with strenuous exercise after a heavy meal.
- Diabetics, particularly those who use insulin, will need special instructions from the cardiologist’s office.
- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that are suitable for exercise.
What happens after the test?
Some people may develop a slight rash where the patches were placed. You can resume your normal activities.
Where do I go for the test?
Cardiology Lab, 2nd Floor, Providence II Building
Phone Number: 605-806-8032