Exercise tolerance test
  (ETT) is performed by
  walking on a treadmill or
  riding a special stationary
  bicycle while your heart
  rate and blood pressure
  are checked.  The patient
  is hooked up with 12
  plastic electrodes to an
  electrocardiogram
  machine, like a routine 
  ECG.

  By exercising, the
  patient’s heartbeat and
  blood pressure gradually
  increase so more demands
  are placed on the heart.  The goal is to achieve the target heart rate for the patient’s age and sex and/or exercise for as long as you can.

An electrocardiogram is recorded every minute while exercising, and after the conclusion of the test.  In addition, blood pressure, heart rate, and any complaints – such as chest discomfort, shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, leg pain, etc. – are documented throughout the study.

We recommend to fast for about four hours or eat a light meal prior to the test, and wear comfortable clothing and rubber sole shoes or sneakers.

The ETT basically shows how well the heart pumps under conditions of physical stress, and is a very valuable tool in the diagnosis of coronary artery disease.

The cardiovascular exercise stress test is indicated in patients with complaints and/or conditions related to the heart.  These include, but are not limited to, any chest discomfort of uncertain cause, chest pain or heaviness, shortness of breath with or with out exertion, palpitations, fluttering, lightheadedness, dizziness, and syncope.

ETT is recommended in patients with risk factors for coronary artery disease (diabetes, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, nicotine addiction, family history of heart attack, obesity) over 40 years for men and over 50 years for women.  It is useful in the evaluation of blood pressure in patients with hypertension who wish to engage in vigorous exercise.

This test is also indicated in patients with exercise-induced palpitations, or heart rhythm abnormalities.