An exercise stress test is the best way for doctors to get an idea of how well your child’s heart works and adjusts to different levels of activity. The test is performed where your child runs on a treadmill. The test will record changes in your child’s heart rhythm, heart rate, blood pressure, heart function and other symptoms.

The doctor will carefully monitor your child during the entire test to make sure there are no problems as the exercise level increases. The exercise part of the test takes about 15 minutes to complete, but the entire test takes about 45 minutes. Parents may stay in the room during the test.