Stress Echocardiogram find out more about stress echocardiogram
What is stress echocardiogram?
Stress echocardiography, also called an echocardiography stress test or stress echo, is a procedure used to determine how well your heart and blood vessels are working.
You will be asked to exercise on a treadmill or stationary bike while doctors monitor your blood pressure and heart rhythm. When your heart rate reaches peak levels, the doctor will take ultrasound images of your heart to determine whether your heart muscles are receiving enough blood and oxygen while you exercise.
Your doctor may order a stress echocardiography test if you have chest pain and he or she suspects it is due to coronary artery disease or a myocardial infarction (heart attack). This test is also used for patients in cardiac rehabilitation to determine how much exercise their bodies can tolerate safely. The test can also determine how well treatments such as bypass grafting, angioplasty, or anti-anginal or antiarrhythmic medications are working.
How Can I Prepare for the Test?
This test is usually done in an echocardiography laboratory (echo lab), but can also be performed in a doctor’s office or other medical setting. It normally takes between 45 and 60 minutes. Before you take the test:
- Make sure not to eat or drink anything for three to four hours before the test.
- If you are a smoker, do not smoke on the day of the test because nicotine can interfere with your heart rate.
- Do not drink coffee or take any medications that contain caffeine without consulting your doctor.
- If you take medications, ask your doctor whether you should take them on the day of the test. Certain heart medications (such as beta-blockers, isosorbide dinitrate, isosorbide mononitrate, and nitroglycerin) should not be taken before the test. Let your doctor know if you take medication to control diabetes as well.
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes. Since you will be required to exercise, make sure to wear good walking or running shoes.