Stress Tests

Cardiac Stress Testing is indicated to aid in making the diagnosis of coronary artery disease (CAD) in patients with symptoms suggesting CAD, and for risk stratification. In some patients with known CAD and prior coronary revascularization or a change in clinical status, cardiac stress testing can be indicated for the diagnosis of new or progressive disease and for risk stratification. In addition to symptomatic patients with known or suspected CAD, patients with heart failure, cardiomyopathy, valvular heart disease, or planned non-cardiac surgery may be candidates for stress testing.

How is the test done?

Symptom limited exercise is the preferred form of testing for patients who can attain an adequate level of exercise because it provides the most information concerning symptoms, cardiovascular function, and blood pressure response during usual forms of activity. Information obtained during exercise stress testing includes exercise duration, variations in heart rate, blood pressure response, and changes in heart rhythm as well as ST segment responses to exercise.

How do I prepare for the test?

Please refer to Heart Clinic of Louisiana's patient resource page for pre-procedural information regarding your specific test. In general do not eat or drink anything six hours before your test, refrain from caffeine 24 hours prior to your test

Heart Clinic of Louisiana Stress Laboratory is a nationally accredited lab. Accreditation is provided by the Intersocietal Commission for the Accreditation of Nuclear Laboratories (ICANL). Accreditation is earned by establishing high standards of quality patient care, careful evaluation of laboratory procedures, and review by an outside board for compliance with nationally accredited standards. Accreditation is re-evaluated every three years for continued compliance.