An exercise tolerance test also known as an exercise ECG involves recording an electrocardiogram (ECG) while you exercise on a treadmill. The aim of the test is to assess how the heart is working when you exert yourself. It can help diagnose a reduction in blood supply to the heart or a rhythm disturbance which may limit your exercise capacity.
It is carried out at the Wiltshire Cardiac Centre and will be carried by one of the cardiac physiologists and supervised by a Consultant Cardiologist from our team.
What do I need to do to prepare for an ETT?
- Wear light, comfortable clothes and shoes.
- Avoid having a heavy meal a few hours before the test.
- If you take medications which slow your heart rate (such as bisoprolol, atenolol, diltiazem, or verapamil) you may be advised to stop taking it for one or two days before the test as it may affect the result.
What will happen during the ETT?
- Electrodes are attached to your shoulders and chest and connected to an ECG recorder.
- You will be asked to walk on the treadmill or use the pedals on a stationary exercise bike, starting off at a slow, comfortable pace.
- The test will get gradually harder by increasing the speed on the bike or the incline of the treadmill.
- You will be encouraged to work as hard as you can, but tell the healthcare professional assessing you if you start getting chest pain or discomfort, or you get tired or very short of breath and the test can be stopped.
- You will be carefully monitored throughout the test and the technician will tell you when to stop.
- The test usually takes around fifteen minutes in total.