Cardiopulmonary Exercise Test

IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING YOUR TEST:

Your specialist/GP has decided you require a test called a Cardiopulmonary Exercise Stress Test.  The test measures how your heart and lungs respond to exercise.  The test gives us very important information regarding,

1) The level to which you can exercise

2) If there are problems affecting your ability to exercise

3) How your condition is changing with time or with treatment

The test is performed on an exercise bike. At the start, electrocardiogram (ECG) leads are put on your chest to watch your heart during the test.  An oxygen probe is attached to your finger to watch your oxygen level during the test.  You will also be asked to breathe through a mask.

A doctor and respiratory scientist will supervise the test. They will check your heart beat, oxygen level, breathing responses and blood pressure during and after the test.

You will pedal the exercise bike at a set speed.  The bike becomes harder to pedal each minute of the test.  To get the best information out of the test, we require you to pedal until you are tired or unable to continue.

During the test you will also be asked to show how breathless you are by pointing at a chart.  You will be asked to indicate if you have a chest pain, dizziness or discomfort during the test.  If any problems or concerns arise the test will be stopped. At the end of the test, you will be directed to continue to pedal, to reduce the risk of fainting.  It will be much easier to pedal at this stage.

You will be continually monitored during the recovery period. If you feel unwell at any time you should inform us immediately.

The doctor and respiratory scientist are specialists in supervising these tests, and can deal with any complications. Please discuss any worries or concerns you may have before you agree to the test.

Risks of the procedure

These are some of the more serious risks that can happen but are not the only risks:

(a) Abnormal heart beat.  This may settle without treatment.

(b) Chest pain.  This may require treatment with drugs.

(c) Heart attack.

(d) Low blood pressure.

(e) Fainting.

(f) Muscle or joint injury.

(g) Death – 1 in 10,000 people.

The tests take approximately 60-90 minutes.