How is the Test Performed?

Electrodes (sticky patches) are placed on the chest, arms and legs. Small wires connected to these electrodes lead to a machine that records a tracing from the heart rhythm. When the test is completed the electrodes are easily removed, much like small Band-Aids.

How do I prepare for the Test?

Wear loose clothing. Do not apply lotions, oils or powders to the chest area.

How is the Test Performed?

Electrodes (sticky patches) are attached to the chest and back. Small wires connected to these electrodes lead to a machine that records the hearts rate and rhythm. A blood pressure cuff is placed on the left arm. The treadmill is programmed to increase in speed and incline every 3 minutes. Blood pressure and heart rate and rhythm are continuously monitored throughout the test. Do not be concerned about the "difficulty" of the test, as your doctor will take your own physical condition into account when determining the levels of the test. The stress test itself usually lasts between 3 minutes and 15 minutes. There is a rest period of 10 minutes after the test to monitor blood pressure and heart rate and rhythm. Allow at least 40 minutes in the cardiology department.

How do I prepare for the Test?

Wear loose clothing and comfortable walking shoes. Do not apply lotions, oils or powders to the chest area. Do not smoke or drink caffeine 3 hours prior to test.

How is the Test Performed?

The chest is cleansed with an alcohol solution to ensure good attachment of the ECG electrodes. Men with hairy chests may require small areas to be shaved. Thin wires are then used to connect the electrodes to a small heart tracing recorder. The recorder is worn for 24 hours and you are encouraged to continue your daily activities. A diary or log is provided so that you can record activity and/or symptoms. After 24 hours, the Holter monitor needs to be returned to the Cardiology Department and is removed by the cardiac technician.

To avoid getting the device wet and damaging the recorder, you should not shower for the duration of the test. Also avoid using an electric blanket.

How do I prepare for the Test?

It is important to wear loose-fitting clothes. Buttons down the front of a shirt or blouse is preferable. This makes it easy to apply the ECG electrodes, and also comfortably carry the monitor in a relatively discreet manner.

Do not apply lotions, oils or powder to the chest area.

How is the Test Performed?

Clothing from the upper body is removed and covered by a gown or sheet to keep you comfortable and maintain the privacy of females. You will then lie on an examination table, gel is applied to the chest and the echo transducer is placed on top of it. The transducer sends ultrasound beams into the body and their reflections are detected and used to generate images of the heart. The test is similar to the ultrasound scan used to examine a pregnant woman's unborn child. The Cardiac Technician then makes recordings from different parts of the chest to obtain several views of the heart. You may be asked to move form your back and to the side. Instructions may also be given for you to breathe slowly or to hold your breath. This helps in obtaining higher quality pictures. The images are constantly viewed on the monitor.

How do I prepare for the Test?

Wear loose clothing. Do not apply lotions, oils or powders to the chest area. Do not smoke or drink caffeine 3 hours prior to the test.

When can I expect the results of the heart tests?

You may have to wait a few days as the test needs to be reviewed by the cardiologist.