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monitor that displays your heart’s electrical activity.
You will be asked to breathe through a mouthpiece and/or face mask for a few minutes
before and throughout the test. A nose clip may be placed so you may only breathe
through your mouth.
Before you start exercising, lab personnel will perform a resting EKG, measure your
resting heart rate, and take your blood pressure.
Lab personnel will oversee your exercise on a treadmill. You will slowly increase the
intensity of exercise. You will be asked to continue exercising until exhaustion.
Lab personnel will ask how you are feeling at regular intervals. Because you will be
unable to speak, the questions will be presented in “yes” or “no” format, and you may
nod your head accordingly. Please tell them if you feel chest, arm, or jaw discomfort,
shortness of breath, lightheadedness, or other concerning symptoms.
Lab personnel will watch for changes on the ECG monitor that suggest the test should
be stopped.
When you cannot exercise any longer, notify the team, and the treadmill will be stopped.
After the test, your heart rate, blood pressure, and ECG will continue to be monitored
until the levels are returning to normal.
Are there any side effects from the injection used during the test?
There are no significant side effects, and the injection will not make you feel any different.
The radioactive tracer used is a diagnostic dose of radiation that is similar to the dose you
would receive during a CT scan.
How will I feel during the test?
You will be encouraged to exercise until exhaustion. It is normal for your heart rate, blood
pressure, breathing rate, and perspiration to increase.
How long does the test take?
The entire test will take about 75 minutes. The actual exercise time is usually between
seven and 12 minutes. Once the test is complete, you will be allowed to get dressed and
go home or to other scheduled appointments.
How do I get the results of my test?
After a cardiologist has reviewed your test, the results will be entered into your electronic
medical record. Your physician will have access to the results and will discuss them with
you.