December
Is a Regular Stress Test Invasive?
A regular, or conventional, stress test is not invasive. In this test, the skin is prepared and electrodes are placed. The patient, under medical supervision, then proceeds to walk on a treadmill with the electrodes still attached. This allows your cardiologist to determine whether there is any limitation to the flow of blood to the heart. Throughout the test the blood pressure is continually monitored and the test is halted upon the patient’s request or if the heart reaches a specific threshold.
There is a short fasting period prior to a stress test of a few hours, excluding water intake. The doctor may discuss medications that are being taken for blood pressure, as well as precautions for patients with diabetes. The actual procedure will usually take less than an hour.
For more information on cardiac issues or concerns, call (631) 654-3278.
