What is the Purpose of an Exercise Stress Test?

The non-invasive exercise stress test is used to monitor abnormalities in the cardiovascular system. The stress test is capable of determining the presence or absence of coronary artery disease (narrowing in the arteries), your heart's rhythm and your exercise capacity.

The non-invasive exercise stress test is used to monitor abnormalities in the cardiovascular system. The stress test is capable of determining the presence or absence of coronary artery disease (narrowing in the arteries), your heart’s rhythm and your exercise capacity.


What do I have to do?

When you arrive at NovaMed, one of our exercise physiologists will explain the exercise stress test to you, discuss a brief medical history and place ten (10) electrodes on your chest to be hooked up to our stress testing equipment. A resting 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) and blood pressure reading will then be done.

Next, you will be asked to walk on a treadmill or pedal on a stationary bicycle. The stages of exercise begin slowly and are increased incrementally at predetermined time intervals. During each stage we will obtain an ECG, blood pressure reading, and ask how you are feeling.

You will continue until your target heart rate or time is achieved or if we observe any signs or symptoms that indicate the stress test should be terminated. After the exercise stress test is complete we will observe your blood pressure and the electrical activity of your heart for a brief period of recovery.


Instructions for Exercise Stress Testing

  1. Refrain from strenuous activities for 12 hours.
  2. Do not eat a large meal or smoke for two (2) hours prior to the test.
  3. Do not drink any caffeinated beverages six (6) hours prior to the stress test.
  4. Continue to take your prescribed medications unless told otherwise by your physician.
  5. Bring a list of your medications with you. If you are asthmatic, please be sure to bring your rescue inhaler with you.
  6. Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes.

You will know the results of your test immediately.

NovaMed Diagnostics conducts exercise stress tests for individuals referred by their physician and the tests are covered by OHIP.

Please call NovaMed if you have any questions or require further explanation of exercise stress testing.