The cardiac stress test -also called ergometry o stress test- evaluates the heart as it beats at higher physical demands. Walking on a treadmill or pedaling a bicycle allows detecting coronary obstructions and arrhythmias that are not evident at rest. The study lasts about 20 minutes and provides a key report to prevent cardiac events and plan safe physical activity.
What is a Stress Test and what is it for?
Under controlled protocol, exercise load increases every three minutes while recording Continuous ECG, blood pressure and symptoms. According to ACC/AHA 2025 guidelines, it is the recommended initial test to assess chest pain of uncertain origin and estimate coronary risk in patients with sufficient exercise capacity. Main benefits:
- Detect ischemia before a heart attack.
- Identify stress-induced arrhythmias.
- Calculate the functional capacity (METs) and guide training or rehabilitation plans.
Indications: When is it advisable?
- Chest pain or pressure during activity.
- Palpitations, dizziness or syncope associated with exercise.
- Pre-surgical assessment of coronary risk.
- Follow-up after infarction or angioplasty.
- Certification of sports aptitude, especially for those over 35 years of age.
Absolute contraindications: recent acute infarction (< 48 h), high-risk unstable angina, symptomatic severe aortic stenosis or uncontrolled arrhythmias.
Step-by-step procedure
- Preparation: comfortable clothing and footwear; light fasting (2 h); avoid caffeine.
- Placement of electrodes and pressure cuff.
- Bruce Protocolspeed and inclination increase every 3 min until ~85 % of the maximum frequency (220 - age) is reached.
- Continuous monitoringThe test is stopped upon excessive fatigue, significant electrical changes or patient request.
- Recovery of 4 min with monitoring of HR and pressure decrease.
Variants: exercise bike for orthopedic limitations; dobutamine test for those who cannot exercise physically.
Interpretation of results
| Parameter | Desirable value | Possible indication if altered |
|---|---|---|
| METs achieved | > 10 METs | < 7 METs + symptoms → possible ischemia. |
| ST segment | No decrease > 1 mm | Horizontal/descending depression ≥ 1 mm → possible coronary obstruction. |
| Maximum HR | Reach 85 predicted % | Incapacity → chronotropic dysfunction. |
Dr. Castolo will convert this data into a plan: medication adjustments, referrals to cardiac rehabilitation or additional imaging studies if necessary.
Benefits, advantages and risks
Benefits
- Prevention: identifies occult coronary artery disease.
- Affordable cost and same day results.
- Prognosis: each 1 MET increase reduces cardiovascular mortality.
Quick comparison
| Feature | Stress test | Stress Echo | coronary CT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Radiation | No | No | Yes |
| Duration | ~20 min | ~30 min | ~10 min |
| Estimated cost PV | $1 000 - $1 400 MXN | $4 500 MXN | $12 000 MXN |
Risks: very low (complications < 0.02 %); trained personnel are present to respond to any eventuality.
Puerto Vallarta Stress Test Prices
The cost of the stress test ranges from $1 000 and $1 400 MXNdepending on the protocol (standard or dobutamine) and includes interpretation and PDF report. It is possible to request an invoice for reimbursement with your insurance company; confirm your policy coverage.
Where to perform the Stress Test?
Dr. Karla Castolo has a treadmill and digital ECG monitor in her office affiliated to a hospital center. To ensure availability, it is recommended to book in advance by phone or WhatsApp.
Next step
If you are planning to start an exercise program or are experiencing discomfort on exertion, a cardiac stress test provides essential data for safe training.
Contact the office for more information or to schedule your ergometry.