What Exercise Stress Tests Evaluate

Identify Abnormal Heart Rhythms

An exercise stress test can help identify abnormal heart rhythms since it uses an electrocardiogram as part of the test. Throughout the test, the patient’s heart rhythm and rate are being constantly monitored. It is important to note this test will only detect an abnormal heart rhythm if it happens during this test. Abnormal heart rhythms are due to a problem with the electrical impulses responsible for coordinating the beating of the heart. Many factors can contribute to an abnormal heart rhythm, such as thyroid problems, intense stress, coronary artery disease, and hypertension. This problem can occur in the atria or the ventricles of the heart. Heart failure and stroke are possible complications, depending on the type of arrhythmia someone is experiencing.

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Determine Risk of Coronary Heart Disease

Exercise stress tests can help determine the risk of coronary heart disease, as they can see if not enough blood is flowing to the heart. Reduced blood flow to this organ can indicate this disease. The coronary arteries can become diseased or damaged reducing their capacity to deliver blood to the heart. The most common reason they become impaired is inflammation and plaque deposits associated with high cholesterol. High blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, and a sedentary lifestyle can also contribute to this disease. When left untreated, patients are at a higher risk for chest pain, heart failure, heart attack, and abnormal heart rhythms.

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