An exercise stress test may also be used to help determine your level of health, especially if you are starting a new exercise program. This allows your doctor to learn what level of exercise you can safely handle.
- Prior to your test, your doctor will perform a physical exam and ask about your complete medical history.
- At this point, tell your doctor about your symptoms, especially any chest pains or shortness of breath.
- You should also tell your doctor about any conditions or symptoms that may make exercising difficult, such as stiff joints from arthritis.
There are three main types of stress tests: exercise stress tests, nuclear stress tests, and stress echocardiograms. All types of stress tests may be done in a health care provider's office, outpatient clinic, or hospital.
You may not drive yourself home after your test. Before coming for your test, arrange for someone to take you home afterwards.
A nuclear stress test involves injecting a radioactive tracer, then taking two sets of images of your heart — one while you're at rest and another after exercise. A nuclear stress test is done along with an exercise stress test, in which you walk on a treadmill.