Load ECG

Heart check under stress

A healthy heart only shows its true performance under exertion. PD Dr. med. Raphael Bruno uses the exercise ECG to objectively assess the reaction of your cardiovascular system to physical stress. Whether for the early detection of circulatory disorders or to determine your athletic resilience - we create a precise database for your health and safety.

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Heart check under stress: 7 steps of your ergometry

A healthy heart must function properly, especially during physical exertion. Many cardiological abnormalities do not become apparent at rest, but only when the cardiovascular system is challenged. In order to precisely determine your individual resilience and identify potential risks such as circulatory disorders or high blood pressure at an early stage, we carry out the Exercise ECG (ergometry) according to the highest medical standards.

Medical history & rest check: Preliminary discussion of your current fitness and documentation of the baseline values in the resting ECG.
Standardized load: Gradual increase in resistance on the bicycle ergometer under medical supervision.
Blood pressure profile: Regular measurement of blood pressure in order to detect exercise-induced hypertension at an early stage.
Heart rate analysis: Assessment of your heart's rate adaptation and ability to recover after exercise.
Symptom matching: Direct examination of symptoms such as shortness of breath or a feeling of pressure under controlled conditions.
Discussion of findings: Immediate evaluation of the ECG curves and recommendation for training or further diagnostics by PD Dr. Bruno.
Individual strategy: Adjustment of your optimum exercise heart rate for heart-healthy and effective training in everyday life.

Cardiology Düsseldorf

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For whom is ergometry useful?

This basic cardiology tool is essential for a variety of questions in order to gain clarity about the resilience of the heart.

Sports & returnersTo determine the individual load limits before starting regular training.
Patients with risk factorsHigh blood pressure, high cholesterol or smokers for the early detection of coronary heart disease.
Clarification of chest painIf symptoms occur during physical exertion that are not present at rest.
Therapy controlTo test the effectiveness of medication (e.g. beta blockers) under everyday stress.

What is an exercise ECG?

The exercise ECG, also known as ergometry, is a fundamental examination in cardiology. While you are exercising on a stationary bike (ergometer), your PD Dr. Bruno continuously records your heart rate, blood pressure and heart rate. The aim is to see how your heart reacts to physical activity and whether abnormalities occur under stress that remain hidden at rest.

Diagnosis of circulatory disorders

One of the main reasons for a stress ECG with your Cardiologists in Düsseldorf is the exclusion of coronary heart disease (CHD). If the coronary arteries are narrowed, this often only becomes apparent during physical exertion through specific changes in the ECG (ST segment depression). PD Dr. Bruno evaluates these signals precisely in order to recognize your risk of a heart attack at an early stage.

Assessment of blood pressure behavior

Not all high blood pressure is recognizable at rest. Some patients suffer from so-called exercise-induced hypertension. During the ergometry PD Dr. Bruno your blood pressure at regular intervals. This allows you to determine whether your cardiovascular system reacts to exertion with dangerous pressure peaks that require medication.

STRESS ECG

Frequently asked questions about the exercise ECG

How does a stress ECG work with PD Dr. Bruno?

Electrodes are attached to your chest and you take a seat on the ergometer. The load is increased every two minutes (e.g. by 25 or 50 watts). During this time PD Dr. Bruno constantly monitors your ECG and regularly measures your blood pressure until an individual stress limit is reached.

What do I need to bring with me to the examination at the practice in Düsseldorf?

As you can work up a sweat on the bike, we recommend comfortable sportswear or loose everyday clothing and sturdy shoes (sports shoes). We will be happy to provide you with a towel.

How long does the examination take in total?

The pure exercise phase usually lasts between 10 and 15 minutes. Allow around 30 minutes, including preparation (applying the electrodes) and the subsequent recovery phase, during which we will monitor your pulse and blood pressure.

Are there any risks with an exercise ECG?

There is a minimal risk of arrhythmia or circulatory problems in patients with known heart disease. However, as the examination is performed under the personal supervision of PD Dr. Bruno, an experienced cardiologist and emergency physician, ensures maximum safety and immediate assistance.

Can I eat something or take my medication before the stress ECG?

You should not eat a heavy meal immediately before the test, but also not come with a completely empty stomach. With regard to your medication (especially beta blockers) PD Dr. Bruno inform you in advance whether you should take them as usual or pause them for the test.

When will I receive the results of the examination?

At KardioPro we attach great importance to speed. PD Dr. Bruno evaluates the data directly after the examination and discusses the results and the next steps with you immediately.

Is an exercise ECG the same as spiroergometry?

No. While the exercise ECG primarily measures heart rates and blood pressure, spiroergometry also measures gas exchange (oxygen and CO2) via a breathing mask. Spiroergometry therefore offers even deeper insights into lung function and metabolism.

Peace, comfort and modern design for your well-being

Practice atmosphere & patient centricity

Your health is our focus - and that starts with the atmosphere of our practice rooms. Inside the historic New Stahlhof, you can expect a Modern, bright and calming ambience, which is optimally tailored to the needs of our patients. Clear lines, friendly colors and comfortable waiting areas create a calm environment designed to reduce anxiety and focus on your health. The registration and examination areas are equipped with the latest cardiology technology equipped to ensure precise diagnostics. We attach great importance to ensuring that you feel comfortable and optimally cared for from the moment you arrive until you leave, because we see a pleasant environment as an important part of the healing process.