Stress testing is a valuable tool for examining the cardiovascular system's response to exercise.

A cardiac stress test is usually performed on an exercise treadmill and is used as a diagnostic tool. Cardiologist Steven Priest says, " To assess the risk of someone having coronary artery disease. The test itself can take anywhere from 3-12 minutes depending on the physical condition you're in."

But, there's more than one reason that your doctor may want you to take a stress test. Cardiologist Steven Longobardi says "An evaluation of chest pain, evaluation of palpitations, so it does not, it's not worrisome if a stress test is ordered it's just one test that helps the physician get better standardized care for the patient."

This evaluation is over quickly offering results in a quick period of time. Dr. Priest explains "We can give you a preliminary result immediately after the stress test."

As your body works harder during this test, it requires more oxygen, thus requiring your heart to pump more blood. At the end of this test you'll be able to tell whether the arteries are supplying enough blood to the heart. Dr. Longobardi adds "To push the patient to the limit to be sure that under extreme conditions the heart can withstand it."

Depending upon the results of the exercise stress test, your physician may recommend more tests or a cardiac catheterization.

Typically it is recommended that patient's refrain from using tobacco, certain prescription and nonprescription drugs, and alcohol or caffeine for 24 hours before the test.