Cardiac Stress Tests

What are cardiac stress tests?

Cardiac stress tests are cardiological tests that measure the heart’s ability to respond to external stress in a controlled, clinical environment. Stress responses are induced by intravenous pharmacological stimulation or exercise. These tests compare the coronary circulation while a patient is at rest and then when that same patient is exerting him or herself. Physicians then look for any abnormal blood flow to the myocardium (heart muscle tissue). A cardiac stress test can be used to diagnose coronary artery disease and assess a patient’s prognosis after a heart attack.

What can I expect during the test?

When you come in for your appointment, you will exercise on a treadmill. This is exercise-induced stress. The level of stress is gradually increased by raising the steepness of the treadmill, and by increasing the speed. Once the stress test is completed, you will be advised to slowly decrease the intensity of the exercise over the course of several minutes, rather than suddenly stopping all activity. Dr. Nick Sarrimanolis will then examine your symptoms and blood pressure response. To accurately measure your heart’s response to the stress, you will be connected to an electrocardiogram (ECG).

When should I schedule a cardiac stress test?

If you are already a patient of Dr. Sarrimanolis’, he or another provider on staff will let you know if you need to schedule a stress test. If you are a new patient, cardiac stress tests are recommended for people with a medium risk of coronary heart disease. Family history, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol and smoking all increase the risk of heart disease. If you are at risk or feel you might be at risk, schedule an appointment to get expert medical advice and an evaluation near you.

Schedule your appointment in central Alaska

We provide primary care services, including cardiac stress tests, to patients who live in or around Fairbanks, Alaska. Dr. Sarrimanolis and staff have the knowledge and compassion to provide you with the advice and evaluation you need. They are committed to providing quality care that will help extend your life. To get started, request an appointment online or give us a call at (907) 451-1174.

*Individual results may vary; not a guarantee.

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(907) 451-1174