Advanced monitoring with Exercise Tolerance test
The exercise tolerance test (ETT) that stands for an exercise test or treadmill test is a technique to measure how well your heart responds when it is working the most. You will be asked to exercise on a treadmill while you will have an EKG (electrocardiogram) machine hooked up to you.
Why do we need Exercise Tolerance test?
An exercise stress test can use in many cases. For example:
- It can prescribe to people undergoing chest pain or other symptoms of coronary heart disease.
- To examine if you heart receives enough oxygen and proper blood flow when needed, like while you are exercising.
- Helps to determine your level of health, especially if you are beginning a new exercise program. The doctor will, then, understand what level of exercises you will be able to undergo.
PREPARATION:
Before the test, when your doctor will ask about your complete medical history make sure you ’re your doctor about your symptoms, like chest pain or shortness of breath or conditions that cause your exercising difficult, such as stiff joint from arthritis and also tell your doctor, if you have diabetes (as exercise affects blood sugar). Wear something comfortable and loose for your better breathing on the day of your test. Also, wear comfortable shoes, like athletic sneakers. There are some other prior-doings that you will have to maintain, such as:
- Avoid eating, smoking, drinking caffeinated beverages for three hours before the test.
- Stop taking certain medications upon the doctor’s suggestion.
- Report any chest pain or other complication on the day of the test.
HOW IS AN EXERCISE TOLERANCE TEST PERFORM?
Several electrodes (sticky patches) will be attached to your skin under your clothes. Your doctor will check your heart rate and breathing before you start exercising. You may have to breathe into a tube to determine the strength of your lungs. Even though you will start off by strolling, the speed of the treadmill will increase as time progresses. You can ask to stop the test if you experience difficulties like fatigue, chest pain or weakness. After recording your activity through EKG for an adequate amount of time, you will be asked to stop. Heart rate and breathing ratio will be monitored for a short time even after you end.
RISKS:
As it gone by professionals in a controlled environment, it regards as a safe procedure. But, there are some rare risks involved:
- Chest pain
- Collapsing
- Fainting
- Irregular heartbeat
- Heart attack
However, such reactions are not likely to happen as your doctor will be monitoring your situation beforehand.