Blood Tests & Screening
About this service
An exercise stress ECG in Windhoek at Eastgate Clinic is a treadmill-based heart test that checks how your heart responds to increasing physical effort, building on a resting ECG reading taken beforehand. This test can help investigate chest pain, breathlessness on exertion, or assess your fitness for exercise, particularly if your doctor has concerns about how your heart copes under strain. During the test you walk on a treadmill while your heart rhythm and blood pressure are monitored, with the workload gradually increased.
The test is carried out in our rooms under medical supervision throughout. Book a consultation if your doctor has recommended a stress ECG for you.
What to expect
- Come in trainers and comfortable clothing, having avoided caffeine and a heavy meal beforehand
- A resting ECG and blood pressure are recorded before you step onto the treadmill
- The speed and incline increase in stages while your heart trace is watched continuously
- The test stops early if you develop symptoms or if the trace changes
- Your doctor discusses what the recording shows once you have recovered
Who is it for?
You may be advised to have this if you are dealing with:
- Chest pain or discomfort brought on by exertion
- Breathlessness during physical activity
- Assessing fitness for exercise or a planned activity
- Investigating a possible heart rhythm problem under strain
- A doctor's recommendation following a resting ECG
Frequently asked questions
What should I wear for an exercise stress ECG?
Comfortable clothes you can walk briskly in and flat, closed shoes such as trainers. Avoid a heavy meal, caffeine and smoking for a few hours beforehand, and ask your doctor about any medication you should hold.
What does a treadmill stress test show?
It shows how your heart's rhythm and blood pressure respond as effort increases. Changes that appear only under exertion can point to narrowed coronary arteries that a resting ECG would miss.
Is an exercise stress ECG safe if I have chest pain?
The test is supervised by your doctor throughout, and it is stopped at once if you develop symptoms or the trace changes. Your doctor will first confirm you are fit enough for the treadmill.
Ready to book your exercise stress ecg?
Choose a date and time online and we will confirm your appointment at Eastgate Clinic in Windhoek. Medical aid and private patients welcome.