Exercise Stress Echocardiogram

What is it?

A “stress echo” is a combination of an ultrasound and exercise test. It compares how your heart muscle is pumping before and after exercise.

A technician will obtain ultrasound pictures of your heart. You will then be required to exercise on a treadmill for a period, after which more pictures will be taken.

Preparation

Wear two piece clothing as the technician will need to access the chest, as well as comfortable walking shoes – suitable for walking on a treadmill.

Results

Your referring doctor will obtain the echo report within 24–48 hours. If the cardiologist dictates a letter, this will be sent at a later time.

If you are a patient undergoing this test and you have any further queries, please raise them with your cardiologist.