Dr Nima Rudd - Heart specialist in Templestowe, Boronia & Mildura
Why do I need a stress test?
Get consultation & test performed by one of the experienced and heart specialist in Templestowe, Boronia & Mildura – Dr Nima Rudd. A stress test, sometimes called a treadmill test or exercise test, helps your doctor find out how well your heart handles work. As your body works harder during the test, it requires more fuel and your heart has to pump more blood. The test can show if there’s a lack of blood supply through the arteries that go to the heart.
Taking a stress test also helps your doctor know the kind and level of exercise that’s right for you.
What happens during the test?
- You’re hooked up to equipment to monitor your heart.
- You walk slowly in place on the treadmill.
- It tilts so you feel like you’re going up a small hill.
- It changes speeds to make you walk faster.
- You can stop the test at any time if you need to.
- After slowing down for a few minutes, you’ll sit or lie down and your heart and blood pressure will be checked.
What is monitored during the test?
- Your heartrate
- Your breathing
- Your blood pressure
- Your electrocardiogram (ECG)
- How tired you feel, whether you are experiencing chest pains or breathlessness
How is the procedure performed?
Exercise is performed on a treadmill. If required, the leads of the ecg are placed on the chest wall. The treadmill is started at a very slow pace appropriate for your age and fitness and at a small gradient (or incline) . Depending on your fitness level Dr Rudd can adjust the speed and incline of the treadmill. Usually at two or three minute intervals the incline of the treadmill increases by 2%, and the speed increases as predetermined, based on the very popular Bruce protocol , If Dr Rudd is happy that it is the appropriate level for you .
Treadmill Stress Test at Dr Rudd Cardiology
Your doctor may refer you directly to our service without prior consultation. You will be bulk-billed for this procedure. Your test will be supervised by Dr Rudd . The test typically takes about 30 minutes. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and clothes. The result will be sent to your doctor soon after your test, usually the same day if your doctor has electronic health record facility. Occasionally, a very abnormal test may require urgent admission to hospital.