What Is It?
An exercise stress test is a test performed to assess whether there is evidence of ischaemia (insufficient blood supply) to the heart, or occasionally to assess if exercise induced arrhythmias are present.
How Is It Done?
It is performed by attaching a electrodes to the patients chest, like an ECG, so the hearts electrical signal can be recorded. The patient is then exercised on a treadmill in graded stages till the patient experiences symptoms or their exercise capacity is reached.
Why Is It Done?
It is performed to assess whether there is any evidence of ischaemia (inadequate blood supply to the heart) or exercise induced arrhythmia (abnormal heart beat) present. It can be used to aid in diagnosis or assess response to treatment.