A Treadmill Test, scientifically known as a stress test or exercise electrocardiogram (ECG), is a diagnostic procedure used to evaluate how the heart responds to physical exertion. During the test, the patient walks or runs on a treadmill while connected to an ECG machine that monitors the heart’s electrical activity and records various parameters.

The primary goal of a Treadmill Test is to assess the heart’s performance under stress, mimicking the increased demand for oxygen and nutrients that occurs during physical activity. It is especially valuable for diagnosing coronary artery disease (CAD) and other heart conditions that become evident during exercise when the heart must work harder.

Indications for a Treadmill Test include chest pain, shortness of breath, unexplained fatigue, and to evaluate the effectiveness of cardiac medications or interventions. The test continues until the patient reaches a target heart rate or experiences symptoms such as chest discomfort, significant changes in blood pressure, or irregular heart rhythms.

Results from a Treadmill Test help healthcare providers determine the presence and severity of heart disease, assess exercise tolerance, and guide treatment decisions. It is an essential tool in cardiac diagnostics, allowing for the timely management of heart-related issues.