What is Echo Stress Test?
An Echo Stress Test, also called a stress echocardiogram, combines two diagnostic tools: an echocardiogram (ultrasound of your heart) and a stress test (exercising or medication to make your heart work harder). This test allows your doctor to see how your heart functions both at rest and under physical stress. By capturing ultrasound images before and after your heart rate increases, your cardiologist can identify problems with blood flow that might not be apparent when you're resting.
Why is it Performed?
Your doctor may order an Echo Stress Test if you're experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue during physical activity. The test helps diagnose coronary artery disease, assess the severity of known heart valve problems, evaluate how well your heart is pumping, and determine safe exercise levels for cardiac rehabilitation or general fitness programs. It's particularly useful for detecting blockages in your coronary arteries that only become problematic when your heart needs more oxygen during exertion.
What to Expect
The test begins with a resting echocardiogram. You'll lie on your left side while a technician applies gel to your chest and uses a transducer (a wand-like device) to capture ultrasound images of your heart. Next, you'll either walk on a treadmill or receive medication through an IV to increase your heart rate. If you're exercising, you'll continue until you reach your target heart rate or need to stop due to symptoms. Immediately afterward, you'll quickly return to the exam table for another echocardiogram while your heart is still beating fast. The entire procedure typically takes 45-60 minutes. Medical staff will monitor your heart rhythm, blood pressure, and symptoms throughout the test.
Preparing for Your Test
Don't eat or drink anything except water for at least three hours before your test. Wear comfortable clothing and athletic shoes suitable for exercise. Your doctor may ask you to stop taking certain heart medications one or two days before the test, but never stop medications without specific instructions. Avoid caffeine for 24 hours before the test, as it can interfere with your heart rate response. If you use an inhaler for asthma, bring it with you to the appointment.
Understanding Your Results
Your cardiologist will compare the images taken at rest with those taken during stress. Normal results show your heart muscle contracting well throughout, with no areas of reduced blood flow. Abnormal results may reveal portions of your heart that aren't receiving adequate blood flow during exertion, suggesting blocked coronary arteries. Your doctor will discuss findings with you and recommend appropriate treatment options, which might include lifestyle changes, medications, or additional testing such as cardiac catheterization.
Have questions about Echo Stress Tests? Our experienced cardiology team is here to help. Contact Advanced Cardiovascular Specialists & Primary Care at (203) 334-2100 to schedule your appointment or discuss any concerns.
