Metabolic Stress Test
The metabolic stress test measures the performance of the heart and lungs while you are
under physical stress, typically walking on a treadmill or riding a stationary bicycle. The
test can help determine whether your symptoms are due to the heart and lung disease
rather than poor physical fitness.
Why is this test performed?
The test is used to:
• Assess how capable your heart and lungs are.
• Measure your body’s ability to do work, sometimes called the functional capacity.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of your cardiac treatment plan.
• Help you develop a safe and effective exercise program.
Can I eat or drink on the day of the test?
• Yes. However, DO NOT eat or drink anything except water for four hours before the test.
• Avoid all products that contain caffeine for at least 24 hours before the test, as caffeine
may interfere with the results. Caffeine may be found in tea, coffee, carbonated soft
drinks, and chocolate. Please be aware that “decaffeinated” products may contain trace
amounts of caffeine.
• DO NOT SMOKE ON THE DAY OF THE TEST, as nicotine may interfere with the results.
• Any medication should only be taken with small sips of water.
Should I take my medications the day of the test?
Please take all of your medications as previously prescribed by your doctor.
Bring a list of all medications you take.
DO NOT take any over-the-counter medication that contains caffeine, such as many diet
pills, NoDoz, and Excedrin, for 24 hours before the test. Ask your physician or health care
provider if you have questions about other medications that may contain caffeine.
If you use an inhaler for your breathing, please bring it to the test.
NOTE: Do not discontinue any medication without first talking with your physician.