Exercise testing evaluates your heart's response to physical activities. It is often called a "stress test" or "treadmill test." For this test, you will walk on a treadmill while an electrocardiogram (ECG) machine monitors the electrical activity of your heart.

What does it tell the doctor?
The test shows whether blood flows freely through the arteries to your heart. The test helps your doctor evaluate the effectiveness of certain medications. He will also be able to tell you what kind and how much exercise is appropriate for you.

What happens before the test?
There are several instructions you should follow before having this test.

• Get a good night's rest.
• Take medicines as instructed by your doctor with small sips of water.
• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes and comfortable shoes for walking.
• Do not wear pantyhose or overalls.
• For two hours before the test, do not eat anything or drink alcohol or beverages containing caffeine such as coffee, tea and many soft drinks.
• Do not smoke for at least three hours before the test.
• Do not exercise before the test.

What will I experience?
You will be connected to a heart monitor with electrodes and wires. Your blood pressure and heart rhythm will be watched closely. The treadmill starts off very slowly and increases in speed and incline every few minutes. If at any time during the test, you develop pain or tightness in your chest, experience dizziness or have difficulty breathing, immediately tell the staff.

If you do not experience any of these, you will exercise until you are tired or until asked to stop and you will be monitored until your vital signs return to normal.