Cardiac Services

Stress Echocardiography

A stress echocardiogram is a test used to aid in the diagnosis of ischemic heart disease and check for blockages of the arteries of the heart. It is a superior test to a regular stress test but is used in conjunction with the latter. Stress echocardiography utilizes the ability to detect wall motion abnormalities in response to stressing the heart. Usually if there are blockages of the arteries of the heart, the area of heart muscle supplied by that particular artery will demonstrate a lack of thickening. This lack of thickening is detected by the stress echocardiogram and recorded on a videotape.

Stress echocardiography is sometimes combined with Doppler recordings to evaluate symptoms like shortness of breath, evaluate severity of valvular heart disease (leaky valves), and evaluate timing for valve replacement in such cases.

What happens on the test?

Typically you are asked to walk on a treadmill which gradually increases in speed and incline. The test can be stopped at any time if you desire, if the person administering the test decides
enough information is obtained, or if there are any safety concerns. You will remain in constant contact with a trained professional administering the test and several assistants.

If you are unable to walk on a treadmill, medications can be used to "stress the heart". These tests are usually performed in conjunction with imaging of the heart.

Is it safe?

Stress tests are performed under close monitored conditions to ensure safety. Your blood pressure and pulse are monitored closely. Multiple electrocardiograms are examined to check
the heart's electrical activity. The test is painless and complications are very rare.

How should I prepare?

You should not eat prior to a stress test and consult with your doctor if any medications should be withheld. Please wear loose clothing and bring comfortable walking shoes (no heels).

When are the results available?

Our physicians read every test the same day. If imaging is performed in conjunction with the test (echocardiography or nuclear), all of the information will be analyzed that day and a report will be generated and promptly made available to your physician.

We have been performing stress echocardiography for the past ten (10) years and have a wide experience in this modality of testing. We also have capability of Harmonic Imaging which makes the pictures much sharper.