Stress Test

A stress test evaluates how well the heart works under physical stress, helping doctors diagnose coronary artery disease and other heart problems. At AZ Cardiology, with offices in Peoria, Prescott, Cottonwood, Flagstaff, and Prescott Valley, Kishlay Anand, MD, MS, FHRS, and Tanvi Sachar, MS, PhD, Chief of Staff, provide advanced stress testing in a comfortable, patient-centered environment. The practice uses stress tests to uncover hidden heart issues and create effective treatment plans. Book your stress test at AZ Cardiology today by calling your nearest office or completing the online form.

What is a stress test?

Stress tests provide essential information about your heart’s ability to handle physical activity and how well blood flows through your heart.

During a stress test at AZ Cardiology, you’ll complete a specific exercise that makes your heart beat faster. At the same time, Dr. Anand and his colleagues closely monitor your heart’s activity. This helps them identify problems that may not be apparent when your heart is at rest.

Why would I need a stress test?

Dr. Anand may recommend a stress test if you have symptoms like:

• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Unexplained fatigue

A stress test can help determine if you have coronary artery disease (blocked or narrowed heart arteries) and evaluate how well medications or procedures are working. It also assesses your heart’s health after a heart attack and guides your exercise plan if you have heart disease.

What happens during a stress test?

Your AZ Cardiology provider thoroughly explains everything before your test begins, ensuring you feel comfortable and prepared.

They place small, sticky patches called electrodes on your chest to monitor your heart’s electrical activity. You start walking slowly on a treadmill or pedalling a stationary bicycle. The speed and incline gradually increase to make your heart work harder.

If you can’t exercise, you take a medication that mimics the effects of exercise on your heart instead.

Stress testing usually takes 10-15 minutes of exercise time. Your provider monitors your heart rate, blood pressure, and how you’re feeling throughout the entire process. After the test, you cool down while your provider continues monitoring you until your heart rate returns to normal.

What can a stress test show?

A stress test can help determine if your heart isn’t getting enough blood during activity, which could indicate narrowed or blocked arteries. It can also reveal abnormal heart rhythms that happen with exercise.

Dr. Anand and his colleagues use stress tests to get a clear picture of your heart health. They go over your results with you and recommend the best treatment or lifestyle changes to protect your heart.

If you’re experiencing symptoms or have risk factors for heart disease, don’t wait. Schedule a stress test at AZ Cardiology today by calling your nearest office or using the online form to book a consultation.