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Stress Test services offered in Ocala, FL
The experienced Marion Heart Center & Marion Physician Associates team uses stress testing to discover why you have chest pain, detect heart disease, or determine your heart attack or stroke risk. The team performs this safe, noninvasive procedure at two state-of-the-art offices in Ocala, Florida, gathering vital information that optimizes cardiac care. Call the Downtown or Ocala West Marion Heart Center & Marion Physician Associates office to inquire about the stress test procedure or request a consultation online today.
What is a stress test?
Stress tests check your heart function during exercise. They typically involve having electrodes attached to an electrocardiogram (EKG) on your body while you walk and run on a treadmill.
These simple, noninvasive tests produce valuable information that your provider can use to optimize your care.
Why might I need a stress test?
The Marion Heart Center & Marion Physician Associates team might recommend a stress test for several reasons, including:
Diagnosis
If you're experiencing symptoms like chest pain and/or shortness of breath, stress testing helps your provider find the cause. They analyze the stress test data to diagnose conditions such as coronary artery disease (CAD) and arrhythmia.
Treatment monitoring
If you’re already undergoing treatment for a heart problem, stress testing can assess how well the treatment is working and whether changes would be beneficial.
Risk assessments
A stress test helps the Marion Heart Center & Marion Physician Associates team determine your heart attack or stroke risk level.
Measuring capability
Stress testing shows how much exercise you can manage without risking further damage to your heart. This helps your provider design a safe, effective rehabilitation program.
How do I prepare for my stress test?
The Marion Heart Center & Marion Physician Associates team gives you some instructions shortly before you undergo a scheduled stress test, such as:
- Wear lightweight, comfortable clothes
- Wear layers you can remove easily, as you’ll likely get hot
- Wear shoes or sneakers that are easy to walk in
- Don’t wear perfumes or lotions (they could prevent the electrodes from sticking)
- Bring your asthma inhaler or other medical devices in case you need them
You may need to fast before your stress test and/or stop taking certain medications.
What happens during a stress test?
Before you begin exercising, your provider attaches electrodes to your skin that send back information about the heart’s electrical signals. You start walking on the treadmill, picking up speed according to your provider’s instructions.
When your heart rate reaches a certain level, your provider tells you to slow down again. They’re recording all the information throughout the procedure for analysis. After your stress test, you can continue with your day as usual.
If your condition makes stress testing too difficult or inadvisable, your provider can give you medication that simulates the effects of exercise instead.
Call Marion Heart Center & Marion Physician Associates to learn more about stress testing, or book an appointment online today.