An exercise stress test is commonly used to see how your heart works during exercise or activity. This test is also called an exercise tolerance test, an exercise electrocardiogram or a treadmill test.

To prepare for a stress test:

• Don't eat or drink anything (other than prescribed drugs) for four hours before the test.
• Wear comfortable clothes and good walking shoes with rubber soles, if possible. You may want to bring a robe, sweater or something to keep you warm after you stop exercising.
• Your doctor may ask you not to take certain drugs, which might affect the results, before the test. Your doctor will decide this and you will be notified.
• For certain types of stress tests, you may be asked not to have foods or drinks that have caffeine in them, such as coffee, tea, sodas, chocolate or some over-the-counter pain relievers.