Cardiology
Exercise stress testing 4-6 weeks wait time
It can help to determine or exclude cardiac origin of symptoms such as chest discomfort or shortness of breath. It may indicate whether the heart muscle is receiving enough oxygen during exercise. It may indicate if further investigation is needed to visualise the coronary arteries.
The test will be performed with 2 Cardiac Physiologists present. The results will be reviewed by your Consultant Cardiologist.
You will be asked what medication you are currently taking. Please take all of your medication that day unless asked not to. You will also be asked if there is any family history of cardiac disease and what symptoms you get. Please prepare by wearing loose comfortable clothes and shoes that would allow you to walk fast.
The test will take 30-45 minutes to complete. A Cardiac Physiologist will connect you to the ECG (Electrocardiogram) using electrodes (harmless stickers) that are placed on your chest and upper body. Your blood pressure will be taken before the test starts and at frequent intervals. You will be asked to walk on a treadmill. This will start at a very slow pace and gradually become faster and steeper. You will continue walking until there is enough information for a result or until you feel that you are unable to continue.
You will be able to return home after the test. In a small amount of patients there are findings that require further attention. If you need a clinical review you will be asked to wait until a medical doctor can review your results.
Try to avoid strenuous activity on the day of the test. After this you will be able to continue as normal.
