Exercise Electrocardiogram test, also known as Treadmill ECG, is an outpatient test done to evaluate the heart’s functions while exercising/stressed. During this test, you will be asked to walk on a treadmill, while being connected to an ECG machine to get real-time readings of your heart’s activity.
Exercise ECGs are often recommended in the following cases:
- To evaluate heart rate and blood pressure during exercise
- To evaluate heart rhythm and electrical activity during exercise
- To evaluate exercise tolerance and assess stress, to determine presence of coronary artery disease
- To determine accurate limits for exercise, for those recovering from heart conditions or starting cardiac rehab
Once the test is done successfully, you will be able to return to your daily activities and diets, unless instructed otherwise. You may feel slightly tired post-test, if you do not usually exercise. Otherwise, you should feel little to no discomfort and should be able to continue day-to-day activities with ease.
Do note that it is imperative to seek medical attention if a rare occurrence of chest pain, dizziness, shortness of breath, or fainting occurs post-test.