Treadmill Stress Test
Cardiopulmonary Department - Phone 319-221-8500
What is a Treadmill Stress Test?
A treadmill stress test is an exercise test that is helpful in detecting the presence of coronary artery disease. Coronary artery disease occurs when the heart’s vessels become partially blocked or narrowed by the build-up of fatty materials preventing the heart from receiving the blood it needs to function properly.
Why should I have a Treadmill Stress Test?
The test allows the doctor to compare the amount of blood flowing through the heart muscle during stress and at rest. The test results help the doctor plan your treatment and any other tests that are needed.
Preparation:
Please review with your doctor or your doctor's nurse.
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Don’t eat or drink two hours before the test.
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Don’t have any caffeine 24 hours before the test. This includes coffee, regular and decaffeinated, tea, chocolate, all cola drinks, soft drinks containing caffeine and over-the-counter pain relievers containing caffeine (Anacin, Excedrin).
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Wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
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You will need to stop taking Beta-Blocker medications 24 hours before the test. Check with your doctor to see if you are taking any of these medications.
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Bring a list of your current medication to the procedure.
Procedure:
After you arrive for your test several small pads (electrodes) will be placed on your chest to record your heartbeat. Your blood pressure is also monitored. Next you will meet and talk with the doctor who will interpret your test. You then begin walking at a slow rate and slight incline on the treadmill. Every three minutes the treadmill will go a little faster and the incline will increase. The time on the treadmill is different for everyone depending on his or her age and ability to exercise. After the doctor has told you to stop you will rest until your heart rate and blood pressure return to pre-exercise levels.
Plan to allow 1 hour from arrival to the time you can leave.
Outpatient Registration:
Please arrive 15 minutes prior your scheduled procedure time. You must register prior to your procedure. Park in the Mercy parking ramp, located at the corner of 8th Avenue and 8th Street SE. (The South Entrance into the hospital from the parking ramp is the closest to Registration.) Upon entering the hospital, proceed to Ground (G) Level and follow the signs to "Registration." After registering, proceed to the Katz Cardiovascular Center, also located on Ground (G) level.
Your appointment date and time:
