A Stress test helps determine how well your heart can function under stress- during physical activity of varying intensity. When you exercise, your heart needs to pump blood faster. According to Dr. Atif Sohail from Heart & Sleep Clinics of America in Arlington, TX, Stress testing is a useful diagnostic and therapeutic tool. If a person experiences uneasiness during the stress test, it is a red flag revealing an unhealthy heart.
Stress Testing Arlington, TX
Before the stress test, the doctor records your medical history, which lets him decide the exercise intensity for the test. Patches placed on the chest, legs, and arms connect to a monitor. These sensors record the electrical activity of the heart. The test also monitors your blood pressure and breathing.
You will exercise on a treadmill or stationary bike during the test. It will start slow and build up speed, continuing till the target. The symptoms to look out for include chest pain, abnormal heart rhythm, shortness of breath, high or low blood pressure, changes in electrocardiogram, dizziness, or fatigue. You can discontinue the test if you are uncomfortable. The doctor will continuously monitor the readings and stop the test if anything unusual occurs.
After the test, you can rest for your heart rate and breathing to get back to normal. Patients with coronary artery disease show abnormal test results. They may require further investigations and treatment. Sometimes your doctor will use the results to change the treatment plan.
It may be difficult to distinguish between disease-related symptoms and the usual fatigue we all experience. Go ahead with a stress test to rule out any heart disease or condition. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Atif Sohail from Heart & Sleep Clinics of America to know more about stress testing in Arlington, TX, by calling us on (817) 419-7220 today.