If you have symptoms of a heart condition or are concerned about your heart health, Dr. Atif Sohail at Heart & Sleep Clinics of America in Arlington, TX can use a stress test and more to help.
What Exactly Is a Stress Test and Why Do I Need One?
A stress test is a useful tool that helps doctors determine what – if anything – might be going wrong with your heart and its functions. It takes a look at things like how your heart pumps your blood, whether or not your heart is getting enough blood, and more.
Your doctor might recommend a stress test if they suspect you have specific heart trouble, like heart valve disease, congenital heart disease, angina, and congestive heart failure. Athletes or those working in high-risk jobs might also need stress tests to ensure their bodies can manage the task.
What's Included in a Stress Test in Arlington, TX?
The term “stress test” might sound a bit scary, but it’s really not that bad. To prepare for a stress test, your doctor may ask that you don’t smoke, drink, or eat anything for a certain amount of time – usually around 12 hours but it might be more or less. You’ll need to discuss any medications to determine if they’re safe to take. You’ll typically also be asked to dress comfortably.
While there is more than one type of stress test, an exercise stress test is the most commonly used one. You’ll have electrodes attached to your arms, legs, and chest that will provide the information your doctor needs. You’ll also typically where a blood pressure cuff during the test.
After you’ve been hooked up to the equipment, you’ll usually either walk on a treadmill or ride an exercise bike. It requires that you continue exercising until you’ve reached your target heart rate or until symptoms begin that impact your ability to continue.
Once this occurs, you’ll rest until everything gets back to its base level. Dr. Sohail at Heart & Sleep Clinics of America will use the information gathered during the test to identify any issues and determine a course of treatment. In most cases, the prep and testing time only takes about an hour.
Ready to learn more about a stress test or schedule one for your heart health? Make an appointment with Dr. Sohail at Heart & Sleep Clinics of America in Arlington, TX by calling (817) 419-7220 today.