What is a stress echocardiogram?
Also known as a stress echo, a stress echocardiogram monitors how well your blood vessels and heart are working during stress, such as physical exercise.
Why you might need one:
This can be used to detect things like coronary artery disease (CAD), heart valve problems such as valve stenosis and/or provide information on the overall pumping function of the heart. It can also be helpful in evaluating heart conditions like angina and monitoring those with higher cardiovascular risk factors such as a family history of heart problems and/or heart disease. If you have a known heart condition, stress echocardiograms may be used to regularly monitor your heart health.
Risks:
A stress echocardiogram is generally considered a safe procedure and serious consequences are rare but can occur for a small percentage of patients. Because the test involves physical stress on your heart, it could lead to complications if you have underlying heart conditions. This is an important reason why this test is closely monitored by a healthcare professional at all times.
Furthermore, a stress echocardiogram can cause increases to your blood pressure, which may be a concern if you have hypertension that is unmanaged. After your test, your doctor may provide recommendations to held adjust or control your blood pressure.
If you have underlying lung conditions, it’s important that you discuss any health concerns with your doctor prior to your procedure, as shortness of breath may be common.
It’s important to know that you may experience lightheadedness or dizziness if you are not used to this level of physical exercise. Your healthcare team will monitor your vitals closely to ensure your safety during the test.
How to prepare:
Always be sure to ask your doctor about specific instructions prior to your stress echocardiogram. Generally speaking, you can prepare for your test by doing the following:
- Review any medications with your healthcare team. Some medications may need to be adjusted or paused before your procedure – but never do so without the recommendation of your physician. It’s good practice to always bring a list of medications to your appointment as well.
- Most of the time, your doctor will ask you to fast for several house before the test (usually at least 4-6 hours). This will help ensure an accurate test result.
- Avoid any caffeine and/or nicotine for at least 24 hours. These can elevate your heart rate and affect your test results. Usually you can drink water before the test to stay hydrated – your doctor may even recommend it to prevent potential dehydration.
- Because you’ll be performing physical exercise such as walking or jogging on a treadmill, you’ll want to bring athletic shoes and wear comfortable clothing.
As always, you should discuss any concerns or questions about the test with your healthcare team.
What to expect:
For the test, you’ll be monitored beginning at rest with up to 10 small, sticky patch-like electrodes on your chest. These connect to an electrocardiograph (ECG) to measure your heart’s electrical activity. And you’ll also receive a resting echocardiogram, or ultrasound. Then, your provider will have you use a treadmill or stationary bike to raise your heart rate, monitoring you carefully as they gradually increase the intensity as much as your able to handle. You’re measured again, and then monitored during your cool down as your heart rate slows, too.
Results:
The images during your baseline resting period are compared to your stress phase – these images can detect any areas of your heart that may not be receiving enough blood flow.