An exercise stress test is a medical evaluation often prescribed by cardiologists and general physicians who are concerned about your heart health. To complete this test, you will be asked to walk on a treadmill at a slow pace while you are connected to heart-monitoring equipment. Your doctor will then slowly increase the speed and incline while measuring your heart rate and breathing. After the test, they may also measure your blood pressure.

What can this test tell you about your health? Here are a few common reasons why an exercise stress test may be ordered.

Reasons You May Need to Perform an Exercise Stress Test

1. Diagnose Heart Disease

According to the American Heart Association® (AHA), exercise stress tests are one of many ways cardiologists may detect heart disease or coronary artery disease, a common, potentially fatal disease that occurs when plaque blocks blood and oxygen from flowing properly to the heart. By monitoring blood pressure, pulse rate, and breathing during exercise, a doctor can determine if heart disease may be present.

2. Rule Out Symptom Causes

From fatigue to chronic breathing problems, many health issues may be connected to an underlying cardiovascular condition. Exercise stress tests can be used to monitor heart function and determine if these symptoms are related to a cardiovascular problem or a different condition.

3. Assess Heart Attack Risk

As the AHA explains, heart attacks occur when blood flow to the heart becomes dramatically reduced or cut-off altogether. Sometimes fatal, these incidents often come on suddenly and without any warning. However, if you display certain risk factors for a heart attack, your doctor may be able to detect — and help prevent — a future attack by reviewing exercise stress test results.

4. Evaluate Treatment

If you have already been diagnosed with a cardiovascular condition, exercise stress tests can be used to ensure treatment is working properly. If the test reveals that heart function has improved, treatment is likely working and should be continued. If it has worsened or not improved enough, your cardiologist may alter your treatment until desired results are achieved.

5. Provide Fitness Recommendations

When you have a cardiovascular condition, your fitness regimen may need to be adjusted to prevent future problems. Exercise stress tests can be used to determine what level of physical activity is safe for your heart.

If you suspect a heart condition is negatively impacting your health, the Premier Cardiology Consultants in Dothan, AL, can help provide the answers you need. Equipped with the latest industry resources, these experienced cardiologists are qualified to interpret your symptoms and perform in-depth diagnostic testing, including exercise stress tests. Whether you face hypertension or heart disease, these compassionate specialists will introduce you to the best treatments to help improve your overall cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of serious complications. To learn more about their services or make an appointment, visit this clinic online, or call (334) 699-6396.