Exercise Stress Testing
Westmead Private Cardiology offer
the Exercise Stress Testing service in clinic:
What is a Stress Test?
A Stress Test is a procedure where you are continuously monitored with an electrocardiogram (ECG) and blood pressure cuff while walking on a treadmill.
A Stress Test
A Stress Test is a procedure where your heart is “stressed” and you are continuously monitored with an ECG and a blood pressure cuff while being stressed.
Are there any risks to this procedure?
The risks of exercise testing are rare but may include chest pain, elevated blood pressure, abnormal heart rhythms, dizziness and very rarely heart attack. Experienced medical staff are in attendance to manage the rare complications.
Are there any limitations to a stress testing?
If a patient is able to achieve the target heart rate, a Stress test is capable of diagnosing important disease in about 85% of patients with coronary artery disease.
Why do I need a Stress Test?
A Stress Test can help assess:
- stress and exercise tolerance in patients with known or suspected coronary artery disease
- the cardiac status of a patient about to undergo surgery
How to prepare?
-
- Stop taking certain medications (e.g. beta blockers or calcium channel blockers) as instructed by your physician.
- Wear a shirt that can easily be removed.
- Please wear flat comfortable shoes which will remain firmly on your feet for walking on the treadmill. Do not wear sandals, heels, slippers etc.
If you are taking any medications, please bring them with you.
How long is the test?
The test will take approximately 30-45 minutes
When will I get my results?
If you have any questions about your test or instructions, please call us on 02 9687 0866
Referring Doctors
For referring doctors, please download
and complete our referral form
For urgent referrals, please call us
in clinic on 02 9687 0866