CPET (Cardiopulmonary exercise testing) is known to be one of the most accurate and also non-invasive tools for testing maximal aerobic capacity and also the determination of submaximal persistent exercise performance. CPET is a unique alternative stress test, it is used to measure the extent to which the heart, lungs, and muscles work as organ structures or individual organs and how they work in harmony as a system. Specialists use CPET testing so that they can formulate the best treatment ideal for patients and also check any cardiac and pulmonary problems. CPET is simple, safe, and non-invasive and takes a short time to complete.
When undertaking the test the patient is required to pedal a stationary bicycle for about eight to 12 minutes. Then doctors will collect the exhaled breathing because this is what they will use to determine the oxygen consumption, pulmonary ventilation, and carbon dioxide production. Other additional tests include blood pressure, heart rate, and arterial oxygen saturation. These tests are conducted throughout the test via an electrocardiogram (EKG), face mask pulse oximeter, and blood pressure cuff. CPET provides essential data that is valuable to clarify the origins of aerobic impairment and any unexplained shortness of breath (dyspnea) in patients who experience multiple chronic comorbidities.
CPET has to be conducted by the best specialist. The right experts should have over 25 years and follow the rules set by the American College of Sports Medicine. CPET should be done by qualified personnel and they should be trained in dealing with the special needs of persons who are suffering from fatigue-related issues. These experts are in charge of evaluating any ME/CFS, Lyme disease, Fibromyalgia, fatigue conditions, and other pains. There is no limitation on who should go for the CPET test as long as you feel fatigued and this is affecting your quality of work and also your ability to work.
CPET is quite safe and it’s a beneficial test and a great alternative for the traditional stress test. Patients no longer have to run on-trend mills during stress tests instead they will spend a few minutes on a motionless bicycle and resilience added and then the doctor will do the evaluation. Most patients prefer CPET instead of the traditional stress test, this is because riding a stationary bike is much easier and the patient will feel more comfortable instead of walking on a treadmill. During the CPET the patient is given special pieces of equipment that the doctor is going to use in monitoring the patient’s body response when there is increased activity or when the body is subjected to stress.
Doctors use the face mask for monitoring your breathing, it is used in monitoring the oxygen that the patient is using and the amount of carbon dioxide produced, and also the patient’s breathing pattern. The patient is asked is given a comfort mask that is placed on the mouth and nose, however, the mask does not restrict breathing. The electrocardiogram is used in monitoring heart activity. Electrodes are positioned on particular areas of the patient’s body. There are attached wires which will register the patient heart activity.