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- $Unique_ID{BRK01641}
- $Pretitle{}
- $Title{What is an Exercise Cardiogram?}
- $Subject{exercise ECG cardiogram Special Procedures Procedure Lab test
- Laboratory Tests Circulatory System heart stress EECG machine treadmill pedal
- stationary bicycle machines treadmills electrocardiograph electrocardiographs
- electrocardiogram electrocardiograms exercises exercising}
- $Volume{P-3, G-3}
- $Log{
- Normal Electrocardiogram*0001401.scf}
-
- Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc.
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-
- What is an Exercise Cardiogram?
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-
- QUESTION: I am to have an exercise cardiogram, but I really don't know what
- that means or how it is done. Would you please tell me?
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-
- ANSWER: An exercise cardiogram is a test that checks to see how well your
- heart functions during exercise, rather than at rest. It is also called a
- stress test, since it shows how your heart responds to exertion. An exercise
- electrocardiogram (EECG) can show abnormalities of the heart that a regular
- ECG won't and is helpful in evaluating people who have symptoms of heart
- disease or a past heart attack. The test is also part of the checkup for
- older people who are considering starting an exercise program.
- During an exercise ECG, you're wired to the ECG machine while you walk on
- a treadmill or pedal on a stationary bicycle. The speed of the treadmill or
- the resistance on the bike is increased gradually so that you're exercising
- more strenuously. Don't eat or smoke for two hours before the test. Wear
- loose pants or short and sneakers. Women should wear a comfortable support
- bra, a loose front-buttoning blouse, and avoid wearing a girdle or one-piece
- undergarment. The test usually takes about 30 minutes. It may take some time
- to analyze the findings, but then you can be sure that your exercise program
- will do you more good than harm.
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- ----------------
-
- The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
- the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your
- doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
- problem.
-