This test shows how your heart works during physical stress, and is a useful screening tool for significant coronary artery disease. While connected to an electrocardiogram (EKG) machine, patients either walk on a treadmill or are given an intravenous (IV) medication that simulates exercise. The level of exercise is slowly increased and the patient's symptoms and blood pressure response are consistently monitored throughout. The test continues until you reach a target heart rate, unless complications such as chest pain or an exaggerated rise in blood pressure develop. You will continue to be monitored for 10 - 15 minutes after exercising, or until your heart rate returns to baseline.