A stress echocardiogram is a medical test that combines an echocardiogram (ultrasound imaging of the heart) with a stress test to evaluate the heart’s function and blood flow during physical activity. It is often used to assess the presence of coronary artery disease and determine how well the heart responds to stress.
Here’s an overview of how a stress echocardiogram is typically performed:
The stress echocardiogram helps your cardiologist identify abnormalities in the heart that may only become apparent during physical activity. It is particularly useful for diagnosing coronary artery disease, assessing the severity of the condition, and guiding treatment decisions.
Stress echocardiograms are considered safe and are routinely used to evaluate patients with symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath. However, they are typically performed under the supervision of trained medical professionals, and the stress portion of the test is adjusted based on the patient’s physical condition and ability.
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