The typical stress test utilizes a treadmill that begins flat or at a slight incline and at a low speed. In two or three minute intervals, the treadmill speed increases and the slope of the treadmill increases. The test typically terminates when the patient is fatigued, a specific heart rate goal is achieved, or when symptoms of significant shortness of breath or chest pain occur. The electrical signals of the heart are continuously monitored during the test and blood pressure measurements are taken. A physician interprets the heart tracings. The stress test may be accompanied by heart imaging studies using echocardiography or nuclear perfusion testing to enhance the diagnostic capabilities of the test.