Cardiac Stress Testing

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Graded Exercise Testing (GXT)

A Graded Exercise Test measures the hearts reaction to the stress of physical activity in a controlled clinical environment. Because exercise makes your heart pump harder and faster than it does during most daily activities, an exercise stress test can reveal problems within your heart that may not be noticeable otherwise. A GXT usually involves walking on a treadmill while your heart rhythm, blood pressure and breathing are monitored. This test is available at all three Halton Healthcare hospitals.

Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing (CPX)

A Cardiopulmonary Exercise Test (CPX) is a special exercise test and is done using a special type of bicycle called a cycle ergometer and specialized computer equipment. This test takes an electrocardiogram (ECG) of your heart and also measures how your lungs work while you exercise.

Your doctor may ask you to take a cardiopulmonary stress test to see if you have any cardiac or respiratory problems during exercise and to determine how well the heart pumps blood to the muscles. This information is used to make a more accurate diagnosis, as well as to formulate an appropriate treatment plan for a variety of lung problems. CPX testing is available at OTMH only.