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Writer's pictureHi-Precision Diagnostics
Jun 113 min read

Treadmill Stress Test in the Philippines

A treadmill stress test is a valuable tool for assessing your heart's health during physical activity. Unlike a resting ECG, which captures a snapshot of your heart at rest, a stress test pushes your heart a bit harder. During the test, you will walk or jog on a treadmill (or pedal a stationary bike) while your doctor monitors your heart rate, blood pressure, and electrical activity (ECG). This allows them to see how your heart responds to stress. At rest, potential problems might be hidden, but under the increased stress during exercise, any abnormalities become more evident, aiding in the earlier detection of heart issues.


When Is a Stress Test Necessary?


Stress tests are often recommended for people with heart problems or symptoms that could indicate a heart condition or disorder, such as:


  • Abnormal Heart Rhythms: This abnormality can cause the heart to beat too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or irregularly.

  • Inadequate Blood Flow: This condition deprives the heart muscle of necessary oxygen and nutrients, especially during physical activity when the heart requires more oxygen.

  • Heart Valve Malfunction: Heart valve malfunctions, such as stenosis (narrowing of the valve) or regurgitation (leaking of the valve), disrupt the proper flow of blood through the heart.

  • Presence of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): It occurs when the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup.

Threadmill Stress Test

Preparation for a Treadmill Stress Test


Stress tests are often recommended for people with heart problems or symptoms that could indicate a heart condition or disorder, such as:


  • Avoid all caffeine, alcohol, high-fat or spicy food the day of the test.

  • Bring a list of your current medications with you.

  • Continue taking your medications unless your doctor instructs otherwise.

  • Do not eat or drink for at least 4 hours before the test.

  • Avoid smoking before the test.

  • Do not use powders or lotions on your chest.

  • Wear comfortable clothing and rubber shoes.


Treadmill Stress Test Procedure


A stress test is a painless procedure that can last approximately an hour. It involves several steps, including:


  • Baseline Measurements: The doctor will first measure your baseline vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, and possibly oxygen levels.

  • Electrode Placement: Electrodes, which are connected via wires to an ECG monitor, will be placed on your chest to monitor your heart's rate and rhythm, during the test.

  • Exercise or Stress Induction: You will then be asked to walk on a treadmill. The intensity of exercise or stress will be gradually increased.

  • Symptom Assessment: At regular intervals, you will be asked if you feel chest, arm or jaw pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, lightheadedness, or any other unusual symptoms. The ECG monitor will also be closely watched to determine your heart rate and any changes in your heart’s rhythm, indicating that the test should be stopped.

  • Cool Down: After the test, you will be asked to stay for a few minutes to cool down and wait for your heart rate and blood pressure to return to normal.


In conclusion, the treadmill stress test assesses how the heart responds to physical exertion. By monitoring vital signs, electrocardiogram (ECG) readings, and symptoms during exercise, cardiologists can evaluate heart function, detect coronary artery disease, and assess exercise tolerance.


If you have concerns about your heart health or need a stress test, consider scheduling an appointment at Hi-Precision Diagnostics for a comprehensive cardiac evaluation and personalized care. Take proactive steps towards a healthier heart today. Give us a call at 8741 7777 or send an email to info@hi-precision.com.ph.


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