Cardiac Stress

About Cardiac Stress

Cardiac Stress Test Services at Nano Hospitals are specialized diagnostic procedures used to evaluate how well the heart functions during physical activity or controlled stress. Since the heart works harder during exertion, these tests help detect reduced blood flow, rhythm abnormalities, and other cardiac issues that may not appear when the body is at rest.

Overview

A cardiac stress test monitors the heart’s activity while the patient exercises on a treadmill or stationary cycle. In patients unable to exercise, medications may be used to simulate the effect of physical stress on the heart. During the test, heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, and ECG changes are closely observed.

At Nano Hospitals, stress testing is conducted under medical supervision using advanced monitoring systems to ensure safety and accurate results.

Workflow

Step 1: Medical Assessment
A doctor evaluates symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, or known heart disease before recommending the test.

Step 2: Baseline Recording
Resting ECG, heart rate, and blood pressure are recorded before starting the stress phase.

Step 3: Exercise or Medication-Induced Stress
The patient walks on a treadmill with gradually increasing speed and incline, or receives medication that stimulates heart activity if exercise isn’t possible.

Step 4: Continuous Monitoring
ECG, blood pressure, and symptoms are monitored throughout to detect abnormal heart responses.

Step 5: Recovery Monitoring
After exercise stops, monitoring continues until heart rate and vitals return to normal.

Step 6: Report and Evaluation
A cardiologist analyses the results to identify signs of reduced blood flow or rhythm issue

Benefits & Value

For Patients

Early detection of blocked or narrowed heart arteries
Assessment of exercise tolerance and cardiac fitness
Guidance for safe levels of physical activity

For Doctors

Objective evaluation of heart performance under stress
Helps determine need for further tests or procedures
Monitoring effectiveness of cardiac treatments

For the Community

Improved early diagnosis of heart disease
Reduced risk of undetected cardiac problems
Support for preventive cardiology programs

Risks & Challenges

• Temporary fatigue, shortness of breath, or chest discomfort
• Rare risk of abnormal heart rhythms during the test
• Very small chance of cardiac complications (test is closely supervised)
• Not suitable for patients with unstable heart conditions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the test painful?
No, but you may feel tired or breathless due to exercise.

How long does the test take?
Usually 30–45 minutes including preparation and recovery.

Should I fast before the test?
You may be advised to avoid heavy meals; follow your doctor’s instructions.

Can elderly patients undergo a stress test?
Yes, if medically fit; medication-based tests are available when exercise is not suitable.

Is the test safe?
Yes, it is performed under close medical supervision with safety equipment available.