Stress Testing Specialist

What is stress testing?

Stress testing is a preventive screening measure used to determine how your heart functions during physical activity. When you exercise, your heart beats harder and faster. Stress testing can reveal problems with your circulation or heart.

Heart & Vascular Center of North Houston uses stress testing for several reasons, including to diagnose irregular heartbeats (arrhythmia), to diagnose coronary artery disease, and to make treatment decisions for heart disorders. 

If you’re concerned about your risk of a heart-related health problem, schedule an appointment with the practice as soon as possible.

What are the types of stress testing?

Heart & Vascular Center of North Houston offers several types of stress testing, including:

Treadmill stress testing

During treadmill stress testing, you run on a treadmill. Prior to the test, your provider attaches a number of electrodes to your chest and arms. The electrodes measure your heart rate and blood flow during physical activity. 

This type of test helps determine the function of your arteries. It also helps your doctor find out how well your heart handles exertion.

Nuclear stress testing

If you’re unable to exercise, your provider might recommend nuclear stress testing. Prior to a nuclear stress test, your provider hooks you up to an IV. The IV administers a drug that increases blood flow to your heart. 

Your provider then obtains detailed images of your heart using an echocardiogram. These images can detect blockages in your blood vessels or arteries. 

Your provider takes pictures before and after you take the medication. This allows them to compare your blood flow during stress and rest.

What happens during stress testing?

Heart & Vascular Center of North Houston conducts stress testing in the office. Most appointments take about an hour. 

Before your test, your provider asks questions about your medical history and how often you exercise. They also listen to your heart and lungs to detect any abnormalities that might affect your results.

Next, your provider attaches a number of electrodes to your limbs. Depending on the type of stress test, you either sit still or walk on a treadmill. The electrodes monitor your heart and respiratory rate, helping your doctor determine your risk of heart disease.

What happens after stress testing?

After stress testing, your provider reviews your results. If your results are normal and your heart appears healthy, you may not need any additional tests. 

If your results suggest you have an arrhythmia or coronary artery disease, your provider develops a custom care plan. They might also recommend additional tests, like a coronary angiogram.

To learn more about the benefits of stress testing, call to schedule an appointment at Heart & Vascular Center of North Houston or book online today.