(HealthDay News) -- A cardiovascular stress test is performed to help detect any heart problem during exercise. During the test, a person walks on a treadmill at increasing levels of difficulty while a doctor monitors heart activity.

To help ensure the most accurate results, the University of Michigan Health System suggests:

• The night before the test, be sure to get plenty of rest.
• About two or three hours before the test, eat a light meal.
• Avoid caffeinated beverages like coffee, tea or soda. Drink water or fruit juice instead.
• Unless your doctor says otherwise, take all of your daily medications as prescribed.
• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and shoes comfortable for walking or running.
• Use the bathroom before the test.