An exercise test gives an idea of the exertion capacity and possible complaints. The presence of narrowing of the coronary arteries and cardiac arrhythmia on exertion can be detected by this test.
You undress your upper body and sit on the exercise bike for this test. The nurse attaches a number of wired electrodes on your chest. Once the wires are connected, you can start cycling.
Your heart rhythm (ECG) is immediately displayed on the screen and you are constantly monitored for any irregularities. A lack of oxygen in the heart muscle and the blood pressure response to exertion are also determined in this test.
The exercise bike’s resistance is gradually increased so pedalling becomes harder. The aim is to achieve maximum effort. Your blood pressure is also measured on your upper arm both before and during cycling.
In an ergospirometry test, you also have a mouthpiece in your mouth and a clamp on your nose. The nurse uses your inhaled and exhaled breath to calculate your oxygen intake. This can determine whether any limitation or abnormality is caused by the heart, lungs or a combination of both. This test is also used to draw up your training schedule during cardiac rehabilitation.
The test lasts approximately 15 to 20 minutes, with at least 10 minutes cycling.
Please contact your treating doctor for more information.
