Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing (CPET)
A cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) shows how your heart, lungs and muscles react when you exercise, and takes place on a treadmill within the clinic.
A cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) shows how your heart, lungs and muscles react when you exercise, and takes place on a treadmill within the clinic. It combines a number of tests including an electrocardiagram (ECG) and blood pressure, and measures how much oxygen is in your blood. During the test you will be required to wear a mask that covers your mouth and nose; this measures the amount of air that you breathe.
Four electrode patches will be attached to your chest for the ECG test and an inflatable cuff will be placed around your upper arm to monitor your blood pressure. Finally a finger probe will be attached to a finger to measure how much oxygen is in your blood. The test commences with resting measurements being taken for 3 minutes, during which time you will stand still on the treadmill. Then the treadmill will start moving and every 3 minutes the speed and slope (incline) will be increased. This will continue until you are told to stop or you are unable to continue. The test usually lasts 45-60 minutes and afterwards you may feel fine to continue with your normal daily routine. However some patients feel tired and therefore will need to take it easy for the rest of the day.
We believe the best cardiac care can only be achieved by the best cardiologists in their fields, working together, for you and your heart. Our consultants are able to offer appointments throughout the week and at weekends.