Introduction
An exercise stress echocardiogram is a test that doctors use to check how well your heart muscle and valves are working. You will need to walk on a treadmill for this test. An echocardiogram uses sound waves (ultrasound) and a device called a transducer to make an image of your heart.
What happens before the procedure?
Follow your doctor's instructions about eating and drinking before the test.
Do not drink or eat foods with caffeine for 24 hours before the test.
Ask your doctor what medicines you should or should not take before the test. Take your medicines with water unless told by your doctor not to.
If you use an inhaler, bring it with you to the test.
Bring a snack to eat after the test.
Do not smoke for 4 hours before the test. In
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What happens during the procedure?
You will be hooked up to a monitor to watch your heart rate.
An echocardiogram will be done before and after you walk on a treadmill. For an echocardiogram:
A clear gel is placed on your chest.
A wand-like device is moved over the gel on your chest.
Pictures are then taken using sound waves that come from the wand.
Your doctor will have you walk on a treadmill. The treadmill will start at a slow pace. It will slowly get faster to raise your heart rate.
The treadmill will be stopped when your heart is working hard. You will lie down right away so that another picture of your heart can be taken.
The test will take about 30-60 minutes to complete.
What happens after the procedure?
Your heart rate and blood pressure will be watched after the test.
You may return to your normal diet, activities, and medicines as told by your doctor.
Summary
An exercise stress echocardiogram is a test that doctors use to check how well your heart muscle and valves are working.
Follow exactly what your doctor tells you about what to eat and drink, and what medicines to take. Do not drink or eat foods with caffeine for 24 hours before the test.
Do not smoke before the