Stress Testing
Cardiology & Internal Medicine located in Merrillville , IN
A cardiac stress test determines how well your heart responds to intense physical activity. At Queen Of Hearts Cardiovascular & Family Healthcare in Merrillville, Indiana, double board-certified internal medicine physician and cardiologist Stephanie Marshall, DO, FACOI, FACC, and her team offer onsite stress tests to adults. Undergoing a stress test can provide important insights into your heart and general well-being. Call the office to request a stress test or book online today.
A stress test assesses how well your heart muscle functions under duress. During the test, you walk on a treadmill or ride a stationary bike. Dr. Marshall attaches several electrodes to your skin and monitors various factors, including:
After you complete the test, Dr. Marshall analyzes your results. Then, she uses that information to make a diagnosis and develop a custom treatment plan.
At Queen Of Hearts Cardiovascular & Family Healthcare, the team conducts stress tests onsite.
Before the test begins, you change into comfortable workout clothes, like athletic shorts and a t-shirt. Then, Dr. Marshall attaches the electrodes to your skin. You also place a plastic mask over your mouth and nose that monitors your respiratory rate.
Then, Dr. Marshall asks you to walk or cycle at a specific speed. As the test continues, she asks you to change your pace. As you do, Dr. Marshall monitors different vital signs, including your blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen levels, and the electrical activity of your heart.
At Queen Of Hearts Cardiovascular & Family Healthcare, Dr. Marshall and the team use stress tests to diagnose various heart conditions, including:
You might also need to undergo routine stress testing if you operate planes or commercial vehicles for work.
A basic stress test typically takes between 15-20 minutes*, but it may take longer depending on the symptoms you’re experiencing and your medical history. If Dr. Marshall thinks you might benefit from additional tests, like echocardiography or nuclear imaging, she might ask you to stick around longer.
Cardiac stress testing is safe and usually well-tolerated. There’s a trained cardiologist and an exercise physiologist watching you at all times. If you feel lightheaded or dizzy at any time during the test, stop what you’re doing and let Dr. Marshall know.
We now perform stress tests in our office.
To schedule a stress test at Queen Of Hearts Cardiovascular & Family Healthcare, call the office or book online today.