Heart test
Exercise Stress Test
An exercise stress test records your heart’s activity while you walk on a treadmill or cycle, to see how it copes with exertion. It helps assess suspected angina and heart fitness.
Quick answer
Exercise Stress Test: what it is and what the results mean
An exercise (stress) test monitors the heart’s rhythm, rate and sometimes blood pressure while you exercise, usually on a treadmill or exercise bike, to see how the heart responds to increasing effort.
- Why it is done: It is used to help assess chest pain and suspected angina, to check exercise capacity and heart rhythm during exertion, and sometimes to guide rehabilitation after a heart problem.
- Understanding results: Changes in the heart tracing, symptoms or blood pressure during exercise can suggest reduced blood flow to the heart.
What it is
An exercise (stress) test monitors the heart’s rhythm, rate and sometimes blood pressure while you exercise, usually on a treadmill or exercise bike, to see how the heart responds to increasing effort.
Why it is done
It is used to help assess chest pain and suspected angina, to check exercise capacity and heart rhythm during exertion, and sometimes to guide rehabilitation after a heart problem.
What to expect
Electrodes are placed on the chest and you walk or cycle at a gradually increasing pace while your heart is monitored. The test continues until a target is reached or symptoms develop, and staff supervise throughout.
Understanding the results
Changes in the heart tracing, symptoms or blood pressure during exercise can suggest reduced blood flow to the heart. Results are interpreted alongside your history and may lead to further tests such as imaging or an angiogram.
Good to know
Risks and limitations
The test is generally safe and closely supervised, with resuscitation facilities available. There is a small risk of provoking symptoms such as chest pain or an abnormal rhythm, which is why it is monitored. Newer imaging tests are sometimes used instead.
Education and reference only. This explains the test in general terms and is not medical advice. Always follow the specific instructions from the team arranging your test, and discuss your results with your clinician.
Answers
Exercise Stress Test: frequently asked questions
What should I wear for an exercise stress test?
Wear comfortable clothes and suitable shoes for walking or cycling. You may be advised about eating, smoking or certain medicines beforehand — follow the instructions you are given.
Is an exercise stress test safe?
Yes. It is closely supervised by trained staff with emergency equipment available. There is a small chance of provoking symptoms, which is exactly what the monitoring is there to detect and manage.
Related tests
Other heart test investigations
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — diagnostic guidance
- Royal College of Radiologists / relevant professional body
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