Together with other analytical procedures, cardiovascular stress tests help to diagnosis of cardiovascular abnormalities, when estimating potential future risks and gauging functional capacity, or to measure results of treatment. A stress test may either involve physical activity or, in some cases, pharmacological administration.
Exercise stress test
In this test, patients exercise using a treadmill or stationary bike while doctors monitor and recode several physiological functions. Other observations include heart rate, breathing, blood pressure, and electrocardiogram are all observed.
Pharmacological stress test
Pharmacological means of inducing cardiovascular stress prove highly effective in individuals who, due to various impairments or medical contraindications, cannot undergo exercise stress testing. These chemical agents increase blood flow to the heart, thereby emulating the effects of exercise.
Types of pharmacological stress tests
Pharmacological stress tests typically utilize either adenosine, dipyridamole (persantine) or, in some cases, dobutamine---all of which increase heart rate, blood pressure, myocardial contractility, coronary blood flow.
Specialized procedures
Some situations may require use of internal imaging techniques in combination with either of the two types of stress tests. Regadenoson (Lexiscan), for example, is administered during radionuclide myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI). Echocardiogram, MRI, or CT scanning also assess cardiac function under stress.
Considerations
All types of stress tests carry a risk of adverse effects, but physicians always fully consider the patient's health status when selecting appropriate procedures. During the process, vital signs are constantly monitored and medical intervention remains immediately available in case of an unusual reaction.
Tags: stress tests, stress test, blood flow, blood pressure, cardiovascular stress
