Cardiac Ultrasound (ECHO) - stress

A cardiac ultrasound (or echocardiogram) performed under stress is also called a stress ECHO or stress test. This procedure is done to determine who well the blood vessels and the heart are working. A treadmill or stationary bike is used to increase the heart rate while blood pressure and heart rhythm are monitored.

Once the heart rate is at its peak level, ultrasound images are created of the heart. The test results will determine if the heart muscles are receiving enough blood and oxygen during exercise.

Stress echocardiograms are performed if chest pain is suspected to be caused by a heart attack (myocardial infarction) or coronary artery disease (CAD). If cardiac rehabilitation is ordered, the data from the stress echocardiogram also helps determine how much exercise the patient can safely tolerate.

The stress ECHO can be obtained to monitor the effectiveness of bypass grafting or angioplasty, as well as heart medications (antiarrhythmic or anti-anginal).

A stress echocardiogram is noninvasive and safe. The test can be performed at our Modesto, California, facility and typically requires 45 to 60 minutes to complete. To prepare for the test, patients should avoid food and drink for three to four hours before. On the day of the test, no smoking, caffeine, or specific medications (you will be given a list) should not be used.