A stress test is a way of measuring how well your heart functions under physical stress. The heart works harder and faster during exercise, which can reveal problems that might not be apparent when you’re resting.
The specialists here at Cardiac and Vascular Consultants use the most accurate diagnostic studies available to measure your heart’s health. We offer outstanding cardiac care to residents in Central Florida from our various locations, including The Villages and Lecanto.
What Does a Stress Test Measure?
A cardiologist may recommend a stress test to help diagnose cardiovascular disease or abnormal heart rhythms. The test helps determine how well your heart responds to treatments for a previously diagnosed heart condition. It also helps diagnose if your heart health is at risk due to certain medical conditions, such as diabetes.
Depending on the results of a stress test, further treatment such as angioplasty to clear blocked arteries may be necessary. Stress tests are also requested as part of a comprehensive physical exam for high-stress occupations.
Types of Stress Tests
- Exercise Stress Test: This type of test involves you walking on a treadmill or riding a stationary bike while we monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration. The test may be stopped if you develop any concerning symptoms, such as dizziness, chest pain, or irregular heart rhythms.
- Nuclear stress test: In this process, a dye is injected before beginning the exercise portion of this stress test. This allows the cardiologists to capture digital images of how blood moves through your heart when at rest. A second IV injection, given after reaching your target heart rate, allows us to capture images of how your heart moves blood when under stress.
- Stress echocardiogram: During a stress echocardiogram, we use ultrasound waves to take pictures of your heart at rest and during exercise. This test may be done as an outpatient procedure or as part of your diagnostic course if you have been hospitalized for a suspected heart condition.
Guarding Your Heart’s Health
Heart health is of utmost importance, and a stress test is a reliable way to examine the condition of your heart.
If you’re concerned about your heart’s health or would like to schedule a stress test, we encourage you to book an appointment with us by dialing +1 352-633-1966. Our centers are located in multiple locations for your convenience, including Lecanto and The Villages. We are always ready to serve you!
