Cardiac Stress Test

A stress test shows how the heart works during physical activity. It also called a stress exercise test. Exercise makes the heart pump harder and faster. A stress test can show problems with blood flow within the heart.
A stress test usually involves walking on a treadmill. A health care provider watches your heart rhythm, blood pressure and breathing during the test. People who can’t exercise may be given a medicine that creates the effects of exercise.
Your Doctor may recommend a stress test if you have symptoms of chestpain and shortness of breath or an irregular heart rhythm, called an arrhythmia.