There are different types of exercise tolerance tests, including:
Exercise Stress Echocardiogram
A stress echocardiogram uses an exercise stress test and ultrasound imaging to look at structural images of the heart at rest and with exercise, including heart size, valve function, and heart wall motions (pumping action). It is used for patients who may have chest pain, shortness of breath (dyspnea), or abnormal resting electrocardiograms (ECGs).
Dobutamine Stress Echocardiogram
A dobutamine stress echocardiogram uses the medication dobutamine and an ultrasound of the heart. The dobutamine is used when a patient is not able to exercise adequately. Dobutamine mimics exercise in that it increases the heart rate and blood pressure. This test enables physicians to see what happens to the pumping action of the heart and valves at rest and during exertion. It is used for patients who have had chest pain, shortness of breath (dyspnea), abnormal ECGs, functional limitations of the aorta, a heart transplant, and/or are pre-operative.
Myocardial Perfusion Stress Test
A myocardial perfusion test uses an exercise stress test and radiotracers to assess the blood supply to the heart muscle. It is used for patients who may have chest pain, shortness of breath (dyspnea), or abnormal resting electrocardiograms (ECGs).
Maximal Oxygen Consumption Test
A maximal oxygen consumption test evaluates a patient's cardiopulmonary system by determining the amount of oxygen used by the body during exercise. Typically performed while a patient is on a stationary bike, this test is used to evaluate patients before or after a heart transplant or for individuals who may have shortness of breath (dyspnea), congestive heart failure, or cardiomyopathy.
Microvolt T-Wave Alternans Stress Test
A microvolt T-wave alternans stress test helps evaluate whether a patient is at risk of developing a life-threatening heart rhythm disorder and would benefit from having an internal cardioverter defibrillator (ICD). This is done by analyzing T-waves on an ECG.
