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Stress EKG
Overview & Description
A stress EKG is an test done to monitor the heart's response to an increased need for oxygen. It measures the heart's electrical activity as the person uses a treadmill or exercise bicycle.
Who is a candidate for the test?
A stress EKG may be ordered when the healthcare provider suspects coronary heart disease. Sometimes it is used to rule out exercise-induced cardiac stress or other heart disease.
How is the test performed?
The EKG technician will clean and shave 12 to 15 sites on the person's chest and arms. Electrodes are attached at these sites with an adhesive. While the individual exercises, the EKG machine records the electrical activity of the heart. The person may either pedal on a stationary exercise bike or walk on a treadmill. Exercise continues until the target heart rate is reached. At that point, the healthcare provider takes readings for 10 to 15 minutes as the heart returns to its normal baseline rate.
Preparation & Expectations
What is involved in preparation for the test?
Generally, no preparation is required for a stress EKG.
Results and Values
What do the test results mean?
Normally, the heart rate goes up as workload goes up. The EKG will show a pattern that is normal for the individual's age, sex, and level of physical conditioning. Abnormal results may indicate coronary heart disease. The test may also show exercise-induced cardiac stress. It also may show an arrhythmia, which is an abnormal heartbeat.
Attribution
Author:David T. Moran, MD
Date Written:
Editor:Ballenberg, Sally, BS
Edit Date:07/31/01
Reviewer:Eric Berlin, MD
Date Reviewed:07/05/01