Stress Echo Testing

What is stress echo testing?

Stress echocardiogram (echo) testing uses ultrasound technology, or sound waves, to create moving images of your heart and its function before and after exercise. 

The test demonstrates how well your heart works under stress. It evaluates the size, shape, and motion of the heart and its valves. Stress echo tests can diagnose an array of heart conditions requiring treatment, such as narrowed coronary arteries, to reduce the risk of complications.

Why is stress echo testing performed?

Stress echo testing may be useful for diagnosing the following conditions and more:

• Coronary artery disease (CAD)
• Congenital heart disease
• Heart valve disease
• Heart failure
• Pulmonary hypertension 

If you have symptoms of these medical concerns or their risk factors, echo stress testing may be for you.

Which symptoms may indicate the need for stress echo testing?

Symptoms of conditions stress echo testing can help detect include:

• Irregular heartbeats
• Rapid heartbeat
• Dizziness
• Lightheadedness
• Shortness of breath 
• Chest pain
• Chest pressure

You may also need stress echo testing if you’re preparing to undergo surgery.

What should I expect during stress echo testing?

Follow your Bridgewater Primary Care & Cardiology, LLC, provider’s instructions to prepare for stress echo testing. You may need to avoid medications, food, nicotine, and caffeine before the scheduled test. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes to your appointment.

During stress echo testing, your provider attaches electrodes to your chest and attaches a monitor that tracks your heart rate. You also wear a blood pressure cuff that assesses your blood pressure during stress testing. 

Before exercise, your specialist completes an initial electrocardiogram and echocardiogram. They wave a handheld ultrasound wand over your chest to create images.

Then, you work out on a stationary bike or a treadmill for about 10-15 minutes, gradually increasing exercise intensity until you reach a target heart rate. Your provider completes another echocardiogram and allows time for you to cool down. The total test time is about an hour.

What happens after stress echo testing?

After stress echo testing at Bridgewater Primary Care & Cardiology, LLC, Dr. Terzian reviews the results with you. If your heart functions normally, you may simply need periodic follow-up to monitor your health. If your provider detects unusual results, they may suggest additional diagnostic testing or treatment, such as medications, lifestyle changes, or a medical procedure.

Schedule an evaluation at Bridgewater Primary Care & Cardiology, LLC, by phone or online today to learn if you’re a candidate for stress echo testing.