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Stress Tests

What is a Stress Test?
A stress test, sometimes called a treadmill test or exercise test, determines how well the heart handles work. As the body works harder during the test, it requires more oxygen, so the heart must pump more blood. The test can show if the blood supply is reduced in the arteries that supply the heart. It also helps determine the appropriate type and level of exercise appropriate for the patient.

Types of Stress Tests Offered
St. James Mercy Hospital performs the following types of Cardiac Stress tests:

• Exercise Stress Echo Test – See instructions and information (PDF)
• Dobutamine Stress Echo Test – See instructions and information (PDF)
• Nuclear Exercise Stress Test – See instructions and information (PDF)
• Nuclear Adenosine Stress Test – See instructions and information (PDF)

A physician may recommend an exercise stress test to:

• Diagnose coronary artery disease
• Diagnose a possible heart-related cause of symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath or lightheadedness
• Determine a safe level of exercise
• Check the effectiveness of procedures done to improve coronary artery circulation in patients with coronary artery disease
• Predict risk of dangerous heart-related conditions such as a heart attack

What You Can Expect During the Test
During this test the patient is hooked up to equipment that monitors the heart and measures the blood pressure, and an IV may be inserted in the arm.

• Test begins by walking slowly in place on a treadmill. Then the speed is increased and the treadmill is tilted to produce the effect of going up a small hill.
• The test can be stopped at any time, if needed.
• After the test, the heart and blood pressure is checked while seated or lying down.
• If a person is unable to tolerate walking on a treadmill, then a pharmacological (drug-assisted) stress test can be performed.

Throughout the test, the patient’s heart rate, breathing, blood pressure, electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG), and general well being are closely monitored. Medical professionals are present during the test to assist if and when needed.

Healthy people who take the test are at very little risk. The risk is comparable to a fast walk or jog up a big hill.

Depending on the results of the exercise stress test, the physician may recommend more tests such as a nuclear stress test or cardiac catheterization.

Contact
Stress Test Department
Phone: (607) 324-8733
Fax: (607) 324-8734
Email: jfreeland@sjmh.org

Location, Registration, Days Open
The Stress Test Department at St. James Mercy Hospital is open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 7:30am to 2:30pm, and is located on the first floor, just past Registration. All stress test patients must check in at Registration.