Private Cardiac Stress Test at HCA UK
Exercise Stress test or Exercise electrocardiogram (ECG)
A stress test or exercise tolerance test gives information about how your heart functions under the strain of exercise
What is a Cardiac Stress Test?
The test involves walking on a treadmill at a controlled speed and incline while monitoring your heart rate and blood pressure.
What happens during a cardiac stress test?
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The test icon plus
Your resting heart rate and blood pressure will be measured before you start exercising. Special sensors will be attached to your chest using small sticky pads. These sensors are connected to an electrocardiogram (ECG) recording machine to track the electrical signals that make your heart beat.
Your blood pressure will also be monitored throughout. You'll start the test by walking slowly on the treadmill. The pace and incline will gradually be increased until you reach a target heart rate (or need to stop due to fatigue or other symptoms). The test generally lasts around 30 minutes, with about 10 to 15 minutes on the treadmill. -
How to prepare icon plus
Your consultant or physiologist will explain the test to you and answer any questions you may have. They'll let you know if there is anything specific you need to do to prepare. This may include avoiding caffeine and certain medications before your test. You'll need to wear comfortable clothes and shoes appropriate for exercise.
If you can't exercise, we may be able to use a short-acting intravenous drug, which increases your heart rate simulating exercise. Your consultant will let you know if this is the right option for you and explain what to expect and how to prepare.
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After the stress test icon plus
The test itself should be painless, but you may feel a little tired afterwards. Results are normally available within 48 hours. Your consultant will discuss these and any next steps with you, including further tests or procedures if needed.
How do I access Cardiac Care at HCA UK?
Our cardiac services in London
From complex cardiothoracic surgery to straightforward outpatient cardiac tests and day case procedures, we provide exceptional cardiac care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics in London, Manchester and Birmingham.
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The Wellington Hospital Cardiac Unit
North Building
Circus Road
London NW8 6PD
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The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road
London
SW1W 8RH
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The Harley Street Clinic Cardiac department
35 Weymouth Street
London W1G 8BJ
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London Bridge Hospital Cardiac Services
27 Tooley Street
London SE1 2PR
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Cardiac services at The Lister Hospital
The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road
London SW1W 8RH
Cardiac stress test in Birmingham
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The Harborne Hospital
Mindelsohn Way
Birmingham B15 2FQ
Request a Cardiac Stress Test
We're happy to help you make an appointment with one of our experienced cardiologists.
Call us today
020 7079 4344