How to Prepare for the Test

Do not eat, smoke, or drink caffeine or alcohol-containing beverages for 3 hours before the test. Continue all medications unless instructed otherwise. Wear comfortable shoes and loose clothing to permit exercise.

How the Test will Feel

Electrodes (conductive patches) will be placed on your chest, arms, and legs to record the heart's activity. Baseline measurements of heart rate and blood pressure will be taken before exercise starts. You will start walking on a treadmill or pedaling a stationary bicycle. The pace of the treadmill will be increased. Rarely, people may experience chest discomfort, palpitations, dizziness, or shortness of breath during the test.

Why the Test is Performed

The test is performed to determine causes of chest pain, to determine the capacity of the heart for exercise after cardiac surgery or heart attack, to determine appropriate exercise levels in those initiating an exercise program, and to identify rhythm disturbances during exercise. There may be additional indications for this test.

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