Cardiac Stress Testing
Evaluating Heart Function Under Physical and Medical Stress
At Orlando Heart and Vascular, our Cardiac Stress Testing services are designed to assess how well your heart performs during physical activity or controlled stress. These tests help diagnose various heart conditions, evaluate symptoms, and guide treatment—especially in patients with chest pain, shortness of breath, or known cardiovascular disease.
Cardiac Stress Testing
What is a Cardiac Stress Test?
A Cardiac Stress Test measures how your heart functions during physical exertion or under pharmacological stress. It helps detect issues like blocked arteries, abnormal heart rhythms, or reduced blood flow. The test may involve walking on a treadmill or receiving medication to mimic the effects of exercise while your heart is monitored.
Why is it Important?
Some heart problems only become noticeable when the heart is working harder. A stress test allows your doctor to observe how your heart responds under pressure, revealing signs of coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, or exercise-induced symptoms. It’s a critical tool for early diagnosis, risk assessment, and follow-up care.
Preparation
Before your test, you should wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes. It's recommended to avoid caffeine, nicotine, or heavy meals for a few hours beforehand. You may also need to stop certain medications as instructed by your doctor. Be sure to inform us of any symptoms or health concerns prior to testing. Our care team will provide complete instructions tailored to your specific health needs.
The Procedure
Depending on your condition, the stress test may involve different approaches. An Exercise Stress Test requires you to walk on a treadmill while your heart rate, rhythm, and blood pressure are monitored. A Nuclear Stress Test involves the injection of a small amount of radioactive tracer to produce images of blood flow to the heart, both at rest and under stress. If you are unable to exercise, a Pharmacologic Stress Test may be used, where medication stimulates your heart to mimic the effects of exercise. The entire procedure typically takes between 30 to 60 minutes, during which a cardiologist will closely monitor your responses.
Recovery
You may resume your normal activities shortly after the test unless otherwise instructed. If you received medication or contrast dye, drink plenty of water to flush it out. Your doctor will review the results with you during a follow-up.
Benefits of Cardiac Stress Testing
- ✔Early Detection: Identifies coronary artery disease before serious symptoms develop.
- ✔Symptom Evaluation: Helps diagnose the cause of chest pain, dizziness, or breathlessness.
- ✔Treatment Guidance: Assesses response to medications or surgical interventions.
- ✔Safe and Controlled: Performed under medical supervision with emergency protocols in place.
- ✔Non-Invasive: No surgery or downtime required.
When is a Stress Test Needed
- ✔Chest pain or discomfort during physical activity
- ✔Shortness of breath or unexplained fatigue
- ✔Known heart conditions needing monitoring
- ✔Abnormal EKG or echocardiogram results
- ✔A history of heart attack or blocked arteries
- ✔Pre-operative evaluation before major surgery
- ✔Family history of heart disease with risk factors