Stress Test Specialist

What is a stress test?

A stress test is a diagnostic tool used to determine how well your heart functions during physical activity. The harder your body works, the more blood your heart needs to pump out to your body. The results provided by a stress test show if there’s an underlying problem that causes poor blood flow to the heart.

During a stress test, your cardiologist can determine which type of activity is right for you and how strenuous the activity should be.

Why do I need a stress test?

You may need a stress test if the Naples Heart Rhythm Specialists, P.A., cardiology team determines you have a condition like:

• An irregular heartbeat
• Shortness of breath
• Unexplained chest pain

A stress test may also be useful before you start a new exercise program. If you’re currently undergoing treatment for a heart-related condition, your doctor may recommend a stress test to evaluate how well the treatment is working.

What can I expect during a stress test?

The team at Naples Heart Rhythm Specialists, P.A., offers in-office stress tests for your convenience. As the test begins, you can expect to stand on a treadmill while the staff connects you to the heart monitoring equipment.

In the initial part of the test, we ask you to start walking slowly on the treadmill. Soon after, the treadmill begins to tilt at an incline and the speed increases to raise your heart rate. During this activity, you may need to breathe into a tube to evaluate how well your lungs are working. If at any time during the test you aren’t feeling well, you can stop.

Throughout your stress test, your provider tracks your heart activity, your blood pressure, and how you feel. The heart-monitoring equipment records information about your heartbeat and rhythm.

All this information is important to your diagnosis and overall care plan. Your doctor discusses the results of your test, and if any issues are detected, we let you know what to expect as far as treatment moving forward.

To learn more about the benefits of a stress test, call Naples Heart Rhythm Specialists, P.A., today or request an appointment online now.