A stress test, also called an exercise stress test, treadmill test, EST or sometimes a stress EKG (or ECG), is a non-invasive study that gathers information about how your heart works during physical activity. Because exercise makes your heart pump harder and faster than usual, an exercise stress test can reveal problems within your heart that might not be noticeable otherwise. Think of it as being like a test drive you’d give to a car you’re interested in. It’s nice to look at when it’s parked, but you want to see how it does on the road! This test usually involves walking on a treadmill while your heart rhythm, EKG, blood pressure and breathing are monitored. It may be recommended if your doctor suspects you have coronary artery disease or an irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia). The test may also be used to guide your treatment if you’ve already been diagnosed with a heart condition. If a stress EKG alone cannot provide the necessary information, the exercise test can be paired with nuclear or echocardiogram imaging, called “nuclear stress testing” or “stress echo.”
