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Cardiology services
Exercise stress test
The test assesses the heart’s response to exertion, with continuous monitoring of the ECG and blood pressure.
At a glance
PurposeTo assess the cardiac response to controlled physical exercise, when there is a specific clinical indication.
DurationUsually about 20–30 minutes total, depending on the protocol and the endurance of the examinee.
PreparationYes, simple. Prefer comfortable clothes and suitable shoes for exercise and follow the instructions you will be given regarding food and medication.
Returning to daily activitiesUsually immediately after the short recovery phase.
When results are availableThe initial assessment is available immediately after the examination is completed.
The heart during exercise
What is not always seen at rest, may be seen in exercise.
The exercise stress test monitors electrocardiogram, heart rate, blood pressure and symptoms as the walking intensity is gradually increased.
The examination is carried out under constant medical supervision and can be interrupted whenever necessary. The results are evaluated together with the clinical picture and not in isolation.
ECG in exercise
Monitoring of rhythm and electrocardiographic changes in effort.
Blood pressure & pulse
Recording the hemodynamic response as the load increases.
Functional capacity
Assessment of endurance and symptoms in controlled exercise.
The process
Incremental effort, continuous monitoring.
The speed and incline of the treadmill are increased based on a specific protocol. The test is stopped when the goal is reached or earlier for clinical reason.
Controlled exercise with supervision01
Preparation and ECG
Electrodes are placed, initial values are recorded and it is explained when to report a symptom.
02
Gradual load increase
You walk on a treadmill while your ECG and pulse are continuously monitored and your blood pressure is measured at intervals.
03
Recovery
After the interruption, monitoring continues until baseline parameters return safely.
Examination with a clear clinical question
It is not a fitness test or a simple "certification".
Exercise stress testing has specific indications and limitations. A result may need to be combined with another test, depending on symptoms, likelihood of disease and exercise capacity.
When can it be proposed?
For symptoms on exertion and targeted functional assessment.
Discomfort on exertion
Chest pain, shortness of breath or unexplained decrease in endurance during activity.
Possible coronary artery disease
When clinical assessment indicates that exercise may add diagnostic information.
Back to exercise
For personalized assessment of functional capacity when there is a medical indication.
After treatment
For follow-up of selected patients after intervention or treatment change.
Before, during, after
Proper preparation makes the effort safer and the record cleaner.
Clothing
Wear comfortable clothing and suitable walking shoes. Avoid greasy chest creams.
Food and stimulants
Avoid a heavy meal before the exam. For coffee, smoking and other special instructions follow what will be given during planning.
Medicines
Do not skip any medication yourself. The doctor will tell you if a different dose is needed for the purpose of the test.
Frequently asked questions
Practical answers before your examination.
01
Do I have to reach maximum exertion?
Not necessarily. The goal is determined by age, physical condition, symptoms and clinical question. The test is stopped when there is a reason or when you ask it to stop.
02
Is the exercise stress test safe?
It is done under medical supervision and constant monitoring. Contraindications are assessed before it starts and safe stopping criteria are applied during it.
03
Does a normal result rule out all heart disease?
No. No exam answers all questions. The result is interpreted with the history and may, when indicated, lead to a different or more specialized test.
The right test for the right question
Do you need this exam?
The indication and preparation are determined individually by the cardiologist.
Helpful answers
What you need to know.
01
When is it needed?
When there is a need to assess the heart's response to exercise or to investigate specific symptoms during exercise.
02
What information does it give us?
Records the ECG, blood pressure, heart rate, symptoms and exercise capacity during controlled exercise.