An exercise treadmill test is used to determine myocardial ischemia, evaluate any EKG changes during exercise, determine patient response to exercise, blood pressure response to exercise, and provide an objective basis for an exercise program.
- Do not eat or drink four hours before the test.
- Do not smoke three hours before the test.
- Do not take any medications the day of the test.
- If you are diabetic and on insulin, only take half of your normal insulin dose the day of the test.
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes and exercise shoes.
Medical assistant or other personnel will prepare you for the test.
- You will be asked to change clothes from the waist up.
- You will be asked your height, weight and which medications you take.
- You will have 10 EKG patches attached to your chest.
- You will have your blood pressure taken.
- You will be asked to read and sign a consent form for the test.
- You will be instructed on how to walk on a treadmill.
From start to finish, this test will take approximately 30 – 45 minutes.
- Blood pressure and EKG will be monitored closely after the test for five to ten minutes or until your heart rate and blood pressure return to normal.
- You may eat or drink normally after the test.
- You may take your medications as instructed.