A type of test used to evaluate the effect of exercise on the electrical activity and function of the heart and on the blood flow in the coronary arteries.
An examination and analysis of heart/lung function while the body is undergoing physical exercise, generally accomplished when a person walks or runs on a treadmill device while being monitored by a cardiograph.
Test that measures the function of a system when it is subjected to controlled amounts of stress. For example, the treadmill test measures the effect of stress on cardiovascular and respiratory function; the fetal stress test measures the adequacy of fetal-placental function and the condition of the fetus.
A stress test is utilized to assess the heart’s response to stress. Typically, the patient is instructed to walk on a treadmill or ride a stationary bike, with the intensity gradually increasing. Throughout the test, the electrocardiogram, heart rate, and blood pressure are continuously monitored. In cases where the patient is unable to perform the exercise, medications may be administered to induce similar physiological responses and evaluate the heart’s reaction.