EXERCISE TOLERANCE TEST

An exercise tolerance test (ETT) is also known as a stress test, and is a way of monitoring the electrical signals from the heart during exercise.

Why is an exercise tolerance test performed?

This test is used to investigate how the heart responds to exercise.  It is used to look for evidence of coronary artery disease (the shape of the ECG changes with exercise if there is a narrowed artery) although patients sometimes also need imaging such as CT coronary angiography. It is also used to look for the cause of palpitations during exercise. 

What does the test involve?

This test will last up to 30 minutes.  Your doctor will have decided whether you need to stop any medications before the test (sometimes  You should wear trainers and sports clothing so that you can walk quickly or jog.  First, a normal electrocardiogram (ECG) will be performed with stickers placed on the chest and limbs.  You will also have a blood pressure cuff on so that your blood pressure can be measured every few minutes. 

Your will start walking on the treadmill, which will gradually increase in speed and gradient every few minutes.  Your ECG will be monitored throughout and your blood pressure checked every few minutes.

The test will continue until either you develop symptoms (you should let the physiologist know) or you reach the maximum expected heart rate for your age, or you have changes in your blood pressure or ECG tracing which indicates that there may be a problem with the heart.  Sometimes it is not possible to exercise enough because of problems with other parts of the body such as arthritis of the knees or hips.   You should let the physiologist know  if you wish to stop the test.

In some jobs like motor racing or if you drive as part of your work you may need to exercise for a certain duration to satisfy the requirements.

Are there any risks?

The risks are very low.  There is a very small chance of a rhythm problem with the heart, but the test would be stopped immediately and the staff looking after you are trained how to deal with this.

Schedule An Appointment

An exercise tolerance test is a frequent and important test in cardiology. Our cardiologists are available for consultation on any day of the week and weekends as well.