Stress Echocardiogram Information 

A stress echocardiogram (stress echo) is a test that uses ultrasound imaging to assess how well your heart pumps blood around your body when it is working harder than normal. It can help detect reduced blood flow to the heart muscle and can also be used to assess the severity of heart valve disease and other heart-related conditions. 

Please wear loose-fitting clothing and comfortable footwear suitable for exercise. You may eat and drink as normal, but it is advisable to avoid a large meal before the test. 

If you are taking medication for your heart, please speak with your referring Consultant or GP to confirm whether any medication should be stopped before the test. If you are advised to stop any medication, please bring it with you to your appointment so that you can take it again immediately afterwards. 

When you arrive at the Imaging Department, you may be asked to change into a hospital gown. A Cardiac Physiologist will take you into the examination room where the test will be explained to you. Please feel free to ask any questions you may have at that time. 

Small stickers (electrodes) will be placed on your chest to monitor your heart rhythm using a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG). Your blood pressure will also be measured before, during and after the test. We will begin by taking ultrasound images of your heart while you are resting. A small probe with water-based gel will be placed on your chest to obtain these images. 

There are two types of stress echocardiogram, and the most appropriate test for you will be decided by the attending Cardiologist. 

In an exercise stress echocardiogram, you will be asked to walk on a treadmill. The speed and incline of the treadmill will gradually increase every few minutes to make your heart work harder. 

In a dobutamine stress echocardiogram, medication is used to increase your heart rate instead of exercise. A small cannula will be inserted into a vein in your arm to administer the medication. If you are having this type of test, it is recommended that you do not drive afterwards. You may wish to arrange for someone to accompany you or plan to use public transport. 

Further ultrasound images of your heart will be taken immediately after the stress portion of the test. Once the test is complete, the monitoring equipment will be removed and you will be able to leave the department. 

The stress echocardiogram usually takes about 30 minutes to perform, but please allow up to 60 minutes for your visit to the department. 

The Cardiologist will review the results of your test and discuss them with you. A report will also be sent to your referring Consultant or GP for your next appointment.