Cardiac Stress Tests
What is a Cardiac Stress Test?
A cardiac stress test (also called an exercise stress test or treadmill test) shows how your heart performs under physical stress. It typically involves walking on a treadmill or pedaling a stationary bike while your heart activity, blood pressure, and breathing are monitored.
If you are unable to exercise, a medication may be used to simulate the effects of exercise on your heart.
Why is a Stress Test Done?
Your doctor may recommend a stress test to:
Investigate chest pain, shortness of breath, or unexplained fatigue
Diagnose or assess the risk of coronary artery disease
Monitor existing heart conditions like angina or arrhythmias
Evaluate the effectiveness of treatments or medications
Determine a safe level of exercise for cardiac rehabilitation
The goal is to see how well your heart functions when it’s working harder, which can reveal issues not visible when you’re at rest.
What Happens During the Test?
Preparation: Small sticky pads (electrodes) are placed on your chest to monitor your heart rhythm with an ECG. A blood pressure cuff is also fitted.
Exercise phase: You’ll begin walking on a treadmill or cycling at a slow pace. The speed and incline or resistance gradually increase.
Monitoring: Throughout the test, your heart rate, rhythm, blood pressure, and symptoms (like chest discomfort or breathlessness) are closely monitored.
Cool-down: After reaching your target heart rate or if you develop symptoms, the test is stopped, and you enter a recovery phase.
🔎 If you can't exercise, a chemical stress test may be used. Medication is given to make your heart work harder, and the same monitoring is done.
How Are Stress Test Results Analysed?
After the test:
The doctor reviews your ECG recordings, blood pressure readings, and any symptoms you experienced during the test.
They look for signs of:
Reduced blood flow to the heart muscle (ischemia)
Abnormal heart rhythms
Changes in blood pressure or heart rate that suggest a problem
If imaging (like an echocardiogram or nuclear scan) is included, the heart's structure and blood flow are also analysed before and after stress.
Your doctor will discuss the results with you, which may include:
Normal findings (your heart is working well under stress)
Signs of coronary artery disease or other concerns
Recommendations for further testing, medication changes, or lifestyle adjustments
Before Your Test
Wear comfortable clothes and walking shoes
Avoid caffeine or heavy meals beforehand (your doctor will give specific instructions)
Tell your doctor about any medications you're taking
Wondering if your need a cardiac stress test in London?
If you're experiencing heart palpitations, don't ignore your symptoms. At London Heart Group, our leading private cardiologists are here to provide clarity, reassurance, and expert care.
Call today or book online to schedule your private heart rhythm consultation in Harley Street, London.