Our Services
Stress Echocardiogram
Combines exercise or medication-induced stress with echocardiography to evaluate heart function under exertion.
About This Service
A stress echocardiogram combines ultrasound imaging of the heart with either exercise or medication-induced stress to evaluate how your heart functions under increased demand. This portable diagnostic test captures images of your heart before and immediately after stress, allowing our specialists to detect areas of the heart that may not be receiving adequate blood flow. This is particularly useful for diagnosing coronary artery disease and assessing the severity of known heart conditions.
Preparation Guide
Before Your Visit
- Avoid eating for 3-4 hours before the test
- Avoid caffeine for 24 hours before the test
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and loose clothing
- Discuss your medications with your doctor beforehand
During Your Visit
- Baseline echocardiogram images will be taken at rest
- You will exercise on a treadmill or receive stress medication
- Additional images will be captured immediately after peak stress
- Your heart rate and blood pressure will be monitored throughout
After Your Visit
- Rest until your heart rate returns to normal
- You may feel tired for the rest of the day
- Resume normal activities unless instructed otherwise
Important Notes
- Certain heart medications may need to be stopped before the test
- Inform us of any joint problems or mobility issues
- Let us know if you have had recent chest pain
Safety Information
- The test is performed under close medical supervision
- Emergency equipment is available if needed
- You can stop the test at any time if you feel unwell
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Facts
Duration
45-60 minutes
Related Conditions
coronary artery diseasechest painheart failure
Have Questions About This Service?
Our team is happy to provide more information and help you understand if this test is right for you.