Exercise Stress Test
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What is Exercise Stress Test
Exercise stress test allows us to assess the response of your heart to the increased workload and demand for blood during exercise. This is done by recording the electrocardiograph (ECG) of your heart while walking on a treadmill machine. It is useful in diagnosing ischaemic heart disease (reduced blood supply to the heart muscles due to coronary artery disease).
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Preparations before the test
· Confirm with your doctor if you are required to stop your current medication for 3 days before the test.
· Take a light meal if your test is scheduled in the afternoon.
· Do not apply lotion, oil, or powder to the chest.
· Bring your running shoes, socks, shorts and towel. Socks are also available at $2.00/pair. It is necessary to wear socks if you are using the running shoes provided by NHCS.
· For men, please shave your chest before coming so that the ECG electrodes can be placed on your chest.
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How is the test done
The medical technologist will place some ECG electrodes on your chest and a blood pressure cuff around your arm for continuous monitoring throughout the test. Thereafter, the doctor will assess your condition and ask you to sign on the consent form before starting your test by walking on the treadmill.
Your blood pressure will be taken and an electrocardiogram (ECG) of your heart at rest will then be recorded. The medical technologist will show you how to walk on the treadmill. The treadmill will start off at a slow speed. Thereafter, the speed and gradient of the treadmill will increase gradually at a regular interval of 3 minutes.
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Your blood pressure, heart rate, ECG and general condition will be monitored closely during the test. As the stages of the test progress, it can get quite strenuous. Please tell the doctor or medical technologist to stop the treadmill at any time should you feel tired, unwell or unable to continue. Please note that once you discontinue the test, you will not be able to redo or continue with the test.
When the exercise test ends, you will be asked to rest on the bed for approximately five minutes while your ECG and blood pressure are being monitored and recorded.
The ECG, heart rate, blood pressure response and symptoms recorded during the test will be analysed and the report will be given to your doctor.
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Is the test safe
If you are not feeling well because of fever, running nose or acute illness, you should not undergo the treadmill exercise testing. You can call our appointment unit at Tel: 6436 7840 to reschedule the test.
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Learn more about the National Heart Centre Singapore  |
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