The 3 types of stress tests are.
Electrocardiogram Stress Test.
Echocardiogram Stress Test.
Nuclear Medicine Stress Test.
The electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) stress test uses small adhesive electrode patches that are placed on the chest and connected to an ECG recording device to measure heart function during exercise.
A nuclear stress test uses a substance called a radioactive tracer.
It's given by IV and then the doctor takes two sets of pictures of the heart — one at rest and another after exercise.
A stress test usually involves walking on a treadmill or using an exercise bike.
The speed and incline of the treadmill will go up gradually.
During the stress test you are carefully monitored to see what your heart rate and your blood pressure is doing.
During a stress test the heart will be stressed, either through exercise or through the use of medication.
During the test you will be constantly monitored by a Nurse Practitioner or a Physician.
The actual stress portion of the test takes about 10 to 15 minutes, however the preparation takes longer (up to 30 minutes).
The signs that you need a stress test are.
Angina, which is chest pain or discomfort due to poor blood flow to the heart.
Arrhythmia, which is a rapid or irregular heartbeat.
Shortness of breath (dyspnea).
Feeling lightheaded or dizzy.
A chemical stress test does not hurt. You may feel some discomfort when the IV line is placed in your arm.
As the chemical enters your body, you may feel a little flushed.
It may feel strange to experience your heart beating faster without exerting yourself, but this is part of what the test is meant to do.
Stress tests are commonly used to diagnose coronary artery disease or an irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia), or to help your doctor plan treatment for a heart condition you've been diagnosed with.
Typically, stress tests are: Performed in a doctor's office or hospital.
You will not be allowed to eat or drink until the medicine used to numb your throat wears off.
This usually takes 30 to 60 minutes.
You may not drive yourself home after your test.
Before coming for your test, arrange for someone to take you home afterwards.