top of page

HEART TESTS

 

Cardiac stress testing

 

A stress test shows how your heart works when it has to work harder. It’s one of the most useful tests for finding blocked arteries, explaining chest pain or shortness of breath, and checking whether it’s safe to exercise or have surgery. We do stress testing right in our Cliffside Park office.

Why your doctor might order one

 

  • Chest pain or pressure, especially with exertion

  • Shortness of breath or tiredness that doesn't have a clear cause

  • Checking on known coronary artery disease or a past stent or bypass

  • Before surgery, or before starting a new exercise program

  • An abnormal EKG

 

Types of stress tests

 

Exercise stress test

You walk on a treadmill while we monitor your EKG, heart rate and blood pressure.

 

Stress echocardiogram

Ultrasound pictures of your heart before and right after exercise.

 

If walking on a treadmill isn't possible for you, we'll talk through other ways to check your heart, including imaging tests we coordinate with our affiliated hospitals.

 

How to prepare

 

  • Wear comfortable clothes and walking shoes.

  • Don't eat for 3–4 hours beforehand. Water is fine.

  • Avoid caffeine, including coffee, tea, soda and chocolate, for 12–24 hours beforehand, if we ask you to.

  • Ask us about your medications. Some heart medicines should be paused the day of the test. Don't stop anything on your own.

  • Bring your medication list and insurance card.

 

What to expect

 

An exercise test takes about 1 hour in total, with 10 minutes or less on the treadmill. A stress echo adds a few minutes of ultrasound before and right after exercise. A trained team monitors you the whole time, and Dr. Fridman reviews every result.

 

Getting your results

 

We go over your results with you, in person or by telehealth, and explain what they mean for your next steps.

 

Common questions

 

Is a stress test safe?

Yes, for most people. You're closely monitored, and the test stops right away if you have symptoms.

 

Will insurance cover it?

Most plans cover stress testing when it's medically needed. Many require prior approval, and our team handles that for you.

 

Can I drive home afterward?

Usually, yes.

 

 

Related: Echocardiogram · Chest pain · Atrial fibrillation (AFib)

 

Medically reviewed by David Fridman, MD · September 29, 2026

READY TO BOOK?

 

Schedule your stress test

 

Book online through Zocdoc, or call our Cliffside Park office and we'll find a time that works.

bottom of page