How Much Time Should You Spare For A Stress Test?

A stress test is a mandatory diagnostic tool that helps assess cardiovascular health; however, the mere thought of undergoing one is stressful in itself. If you are about to go for one and wondering how long a stress test takes, this blog is perfect for you.Fortunately, the exercise part of the test itself takes about 15 to 20 minutes only. So, take a deep breath, relax, and let's explore what a stress test entails and what you can expect during the procedure.

What is a Stress Test?

It is an assessment that has two parts. In a very controlled situation, your heart is stressed out with the help of either exercise on a treadmill or a chemical injection. The entire simulation is dependent on your status.Three things are continuously measured; heart rate, rhythm, and blood pressure throughout the entire exam.When you enter the second stage, pictures are taken of your heart to compare the before and after.

How Long Does a Stress Test Take?

Stress tests usually take about 1 hour on the whole. This includes the prep time and the actual test time. Your exercise takes only 15 minutes. Do not panic; it simply involves walking on a treadmill or pedaling a stationary bicycle.

How Does a Stress Test Work?

It works in parts.

Before the Test:

Usually, doctors recommend staying in the state of fasting prior to the stress test. They say that it is easier and much safer to perform a stress test on someone without a full stomach.Other than that, they also recommend not taking any beta blockers if you do. They are a kind of medicinal drug to treat high blood pressure. You should stop at least 12 to 18 hours prior to your test since it impacts the heart rate and may cause inaccurate results.

The Stress Test

From there, you undergo the stress part of the test. In this section, you are made for walking on a treadmill, which slowly increases in speed until you reach your target heart rate or start exhibiting symptoms indicating that you need to stop, for example, chest pain.Once you reach your target, a Myoview injection is inserted again. After this, you will stay on for another minute to let the Myoview circulate.A second kind of stress is put on your heart due to this injected chemical. Once done, your condition and heart will be under observation till the heart rate reaches the baseline.

The Second Set of Pictures

Once the exercise part is over, you will have a meal and then wait for two hours for your second set of photos to be taken of your heart.

What Does Your Result Mean?

The images are read by your cardiologist later on that day; after doing so, they write the key observations and communicate the results.

Final Note

At North Houston Cardiovascular, we aim to treat to provide the best treatment for your heart troubles. To learn more, dial (281) 807 5253. Our line is on for 24/7 assistance.