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Private Cardiac Stress Test at HCA UK
Exercise Stress Test or Exercise Electrocardiogram (ECG)
A stress test or exercise tolerance test gives information about how your heart functions under the strain of exercise
What is a Cardiac Stress Test?
This routine test helps to diagnose coronary artery disease and cardiac arrhythmia, as well as investigate other heart-related symptoms including chest pain and dizziness.
The test involves walking on a treadmill at a controlled speed and incline while monitoring your heart rate and blood pressure.
What happens during a cardiac stress test?
Your resting heart rate and blood pressure will be measured before you start exercising. Special sensors will be attached to your chest using small sticky pads. These sensors are connected to an electrocardiogram (ECG) recording machine to track the electrical signals that make your heart beat.
Your blood pressure will also be monitored throughout. You'll start the test by walking slowly on the treadmill. The pace and incline will gradually be increased until you reach a target heart rate (or need to stop due to fatigue or other symptoms). The test generally lasts around 30 minutes, with about 10 to 15 minutes on the treadmill.
Your blood pressure will also be monitored throughout. You'll start the test by walking slowly on the treadmill. The pace and incline will gradually be increased until you reach a target heart rate (or need to stop due to fatigue or other symptoms). The test generally lasts around 30 minutes, with about 10 to 15 minutes on the treadmill.
Your consultant or physiologist will explain the test to you and answer any questions you may have. They'll let you know if there is anything specific you need to do to prepare. This may include avoiding caffeine and certain medications before your test. You'll need to wear comfortable clothes and shoes appropriate for exercise.
If you can't exercise, we may be able to use a short-acting intravenous drug, which increases your heart rate simulating exercise. Your consultant will let you know if this is the right option for you and explain what to expect and how to prepare.
If you can't exercise, we may be able to use a short-acting intravenous drug, which increases your heart rate simulating exercise. Your consultant will let you know if this is the right option for you and explain what to expect and how to prepare.
The test itself should be painless, but you may feel a little tired afterwards. Results are normally available within 48 hours. Your consultant will discuss these and any next steps with you, including further tests or procedures if needed.
How do I access Cardiac Care at HCA UK?
The HCA UK network of hospital and clinics offers a comprehensive cardiac service for those with cardiac problems and conditions. Your GP can refer you for diagnostic tests at a HCA UK location, or directly to a cardiologist for further investigations.
Our Private Cardiac Stress Test at HCA UK locations
The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road, SW1W 8RH London