Stress test is a non-invasive investigation that analyzes the heart's response to exercise and is useful in the diagnosis of cardiovascular disease and in assessing exercise capacity.

The examination consists of running an EKG while the patient performs physical activity, either on a treadmill or on an ergonomic bicycle (cycle ergometer). The exercise is progressive, tailored to the individual patient, and is carried out under the close supervision of the cardiologist and ancillary staff.

During the test they are monitored:

• electrocardiogram (EKG)
• blood pressure
• pulse
• blood oxygen saturation
• symptoms experienced by the patient (chest pain, dizziness, shortness of breath)

The test stops when the patient reaches a maximum pulse or a target pulse, set according to age.

It is an affordable and commonly used method for:

• detecting and assessing the severity of ischemic heart disease
• investigating patients with multiple cardiovascular risk factors
• monitoring the effectiveness of treatment for known heart conditions