The ECG taken at rest by forcing the heart is called an exercise test. The exercise test is performed to determine whether the patient has occlusive cardiovascular disease. By making the patient exert himself, the heart reaches a certain beating rate and it is observed whether there is a problem in blood flow. Sometimes an exercise test can be performed to objectively determine the patient's activity level.
The exercise test is performed on a treadmill or bicycle. Heart rate is increased by walking on a rotating belt or pedaling a bicycle. The speed and incline are adjusted by the physician, and the heart is fatigued. Meanwhile, the ECG recordings taken are analyzed. Complaints such as blood pressure, pulse changes, chest pain and shortness of breath during exercise are recorded.
Who is Applied to Exercise Test?
Exertion test is most commonly used in the diagnosis and diagnosis of cardiovascular occlusions. It is applied in the follow-up of patients. On the other hand, it can be preferred in determining exercise capacity, determining the risk of heart attack patients, investigating the response of blood pressure to exercise, examining rhythm disorders that may occur with exercise, and investigating the causes of fainting.
How is an Exercise Test Done?
Food should not be consumed until 2 hours before the stress test. You should not smoke during this period. It is recommended to wear comfortable clothes to pass the test comfortably. Sneakers, tracksuits or shorts will be appropriate. Male patients should shave their chest. It may be necessary to stop certain heart or blood pressure medications before the exercise test. The doctor will decide this. High blood pressure prevents the exercise test from being performed. In such a case, your doctor may tell you to take your blood pressure medication on the day of the test.
After the preparations are made, the stress test begins. After evaluating the ECG taken at rest, it is decided whether or not a stress test will be performed. First, electrodes are attached to the patient's chest to record an ECG. At the beginning of the test, slow and slightly inclined movements (if performed on a treadmill) are performed. Then, speed and incline are increased at certain intervals. The goal is to gradually put weight on the heart until it reaches 85 percent of maximum heart rate. is to continue. Heart rhythm is constantly monitored on the screen and blood pressure is measured at each stage. The average duration of the stress test is 8-10 minutes.
If complaints such as chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, palpitations, fatigue, leg pain occur during the test, this should be reported.
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