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Find Center For EKG Stress Test NYC

Find Center For EKG Stress Test NYC

Heart patients usually want to know on what grounds certain tests are done. For example, a lot of patients have questions regarding an EKG stress test. Two of the most common questions are:  

1. When and why is this test performed?
2. What is the difference between this test and a standard EKG?

We will answer both of these questions today.

When and why is this test performed?

An EKG stress test is performed when a patient shows an increased risk for either the development of heart disease or a heart attack. Risk factors include:

• Age
• Gender
• Weight
• Physical activity level
• Family history
• Use of drugs and/or alcohol
• Smoking
• Risk for hypertension, diabetes and other medical conditions
• Ability to manage stress

The more risk factors you have, the greater your likelihood of getting an EKG stress test.

A cardiologist will perform a preliminary physical exam to determine your risk level for heart disease, heart attack, and other cardiac conditions. Further testing may be ordered based on the findings from your physical exam.

Follow the instructions given to you by your cardiologist and schedule more appointments as required.

What is the difference between this test and a standard EKG?

Both a standard EKG and an EKG stress test look at your heart function. This includes your cardiac rate and rhythm. The biggest difference between these two tests is that one is performed while you are at rest and the other is performed while you are active.

During an EKG stress test, different machines will monitor your cardiac and metabolic functions while you exercise on a treadmill for about 10 minutes. In that time, the specialist administering the test will try to work up to and sustain your maximum heart rate for a minute or two.

The treadmill will start at a lower speed, which is steadily increased as the test progresses. The goal is to establish your baseline of cardiac health and closely examine the test results for any markers of a heart condition.

Patients also ask if they should have cardiac testing done if they are at low risk for heart disease and heart attack. The answer is no. Getting tested unnecessarily can lead to inconclusive results that expose your body to additional risks and stressors.

Dr. Seldon, a Heart Doctor and Cardiologist in New York City, offers same day appointments and all testing is done on site.  Call us at (212) 367-8000.