What is an exercise electrodecardiogram?

An electrocardiogram is a fast and easy test that measures the heart's health. The electrodes are small, sticky patches made of plastic that stick to the skin and are used for this test. Through wires, the electrodes are connected with an ECG machine. The ECG machine then measures the electrical activity of each heartbeat and interprets it before printing it out. It is impossible to send electricity into the body.

Natural electrical impulses coordinate contractions between the different parts and keep blood moving in the right direction. The ECG tracks these impulses and shows how fast the heart beats, the rhythm of the beating (steady/irregular), and the strength of the electrical impulses moving through the different parts. A variety of heart conditions can cause changes in the ECG.

The exercise ECG measures the heart's response during exercise and stress. This test is performed while you're exercising on a stationary bicycle or treadmill. The test will include an ECG tracing at specific points to show the effect of increased stress on the heart. To make it more challenging, the treadmill speed and the incline speed will be increased. You'll pedal faster when you're on a bike against more resistance. In both cases, you'll exercise until you reach a target heart beat (determined by your healthcare provider depending on your age and health) or until the symptoms cease.

Why would I need an exercise electrodecardiogram?

There are several reasons your healthcare provider might request an exercise electrocardiogram.

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Your doctor may recommend you exercise or stress tolerance tests if you are diagnosed with coronary artery disease.

To establish safe exercise limits before beginning a cardiac rehab program, or after recovering from a cardiac event (myocardial injury or MI)

To evaluate heart rhythm and electrical activity during exercise

To determine heart rate and bloodpressure during exercise

You may have other reasons to ask your healthcare provider for an exercise ECG.

What are the dangers of an exercise electrocardiogram

Due to stress on the heart during the test there is a slight chance for:

Chest pain

Heart attack

High blood pressure

Infrequent heartbeats

Dizziness

Nausea

Tiredness

Passing out

Cardiac arrest

Grave heart rhythm problems

It can be uncomfortable for some to take off the sticky electrodes. They can cause tissue irritation or tissue destruction if the electrodes are left on too long.

Your specific medical condition may pose additional risks. Talk to your healthcare provider about any concerns you may have before the procedure.

The results of an ECG exercise may be affected by certain conditions or factors, including:

Eat a large meal prior to the test

Consumption of caffeine before the test

Prior to the test, smoking or using any other tobacco products

High blood pressure

Electrolyte imbalances (such as too much or little potassium, magnesium or calcium in your blood)

It may be difficult for certain medicines like beta-blockers to increase heart rate to the target level.

Heart valve disease

Larger heart

Arrhythmias