Stress Testing (Cardiac)

Cardiac stress testing is a diagnostic tool used to evaluate how well the heart functions under physical stress or when stimulated by specific medications. It helps identify potential issues with blood flow, heart rhythm, and overall cardiovascular health. At Revere Health, our experienced cardiologists use advanced stress testing methods to diagnose heart conditions and guide treatment plans for optimal cardiac care.

How Does a Cardiac Stress Test Work?
During a cardiac stress test, the heart’s response to increased demand is monitored closely using imaging technology and other diagnostic tools. There are two primary types of stress tests:

Exercise Stress Test: Patients walk or run on a treadmill or pedal a stationary bike while connected to an electrocardiogram (ECG) machine. This method measures heart rate, blood pressure, and electrical activity to assess how the heart performs during physical activity.
Pharmacologic (Chemical) Stress Test: For patients unable to exercise, a medication such as dobutamine or adenosine is administered to stimulate the heart, mimicking the effects of exercise. This test is combined with imaging techniques, such as echocardiography or nuclear imaging, to visualize heart function and blood flow.
When Is a Stress Test Recommended?
Cardiac stress tests are recommended for a variety of reasons, including:

Diagnosing Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): Stress testing helps detect blockages in the coronary arteries, which can limit blood flow to the heart and lead to conditions like angina or heart attacks.
Evaluating Heart Rhythm Problems: The test can identify arrhythmias or abnormal heart rhythms that occur during physical exertion.
Assessing Treatment Effectiveness: Stress tests help determine how well current treatments, such as medications or surgical interventions, are managing heart disease.
Pre-Operative Evaluation: In some cases, stress tests are used to assess cardiac function before non-cardiac surgeries.
What to Expect During the Test
The specifics of the test depend on the type of stress test ordered. For an exercise stress test, you will wear comfortable clothing and shoes for walking or jogging. Our team will place ECG electrodes on your chest, and you’ll gradually increase your activity level while your heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure are closely monitored. For a pharmacologic stress test, you will lie down while a medication is injected to stimulate your heart, followed by imaging to assess blood flow.

Understanding the Results
The results of a stress test can reveal how well blood flows through the heart, if there are any areas of reduced blood supply, or if there are signs of a heart condition that require further testing. Based on your results, our cardiologists will work with you to develop a personalized care plan, which may include lifestyle changes, medications, or additional diagnostic procedures.

Trust Revere Health for Comprehensive Cardiac Care
At Revere Health, our cardiology team is dedicated to providing comprehensive, patient-focused cardiac care. We use advanced stress testing techniques to ensure accurate diagnoses and effective treatment planning. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms of heart disease or need a routine evaluation, our team is here to support your heart health every step of the way.

For more information about our cardiac stress testing services or to schedule an appointment, contact our office today. We’re committed to helping you achieve better heart health and a higher quality of life.