Cardiovascular Investigations

Stress echocardiogram (Stress Echo)

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:

  • Resting Echocardiogram: Initially, a baseline echocardiogram is performed while the patient is at rest. This involves using ultrasound technology to create detailed images of the heart’s chambers, valves, and overall structure.
  • Exercise Stress Test: Following the resting echocardiogram, the patient is subjected to a stressor to increase the heart rate and simulate the effects of physical activity. This stress can be induced either through exercise on a treadmill or, if the patient is unable to exercise, through the administration of medications that simulate the stress response on the heart.
  • Continuous Monitoring: Throughout the stress test, the patient’s heart rate, blood pressure, and electrocardiogram (ECG) are continuously monitored to assess the heart’s response to stress.
  • Repeat Echocardiogram: While the patient is still under stress, another echocardiogram is performed to capture images of the heart during increased activity. This allows your cardiologist to observe any changes in heart function, such as changes in wall motion or blood flow, that may indicate areas of the heart not receiving adequate blood supply.

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.