This test is available at both our Berkley
Main office and Troy office. If you prefer this test be done at a certain
location, please inform the scheduler of this when you call to make the
appointment.
Stress Echo
WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF A
STRESS ECHOCARDIOGRAM? The stress echo is a diagnostic
exam used to evaluate your level of fitness, your heart rate and blood
pressure response to activity. In conjunction with the exercise portion of
the test, the echo portion will assess for the presence or absence of
coronary artery disease.
WHO ADMINISTERS THE STRESS ECHOCARDIOGRAM?
An ultrasound technologist performs the ultrasound and a certified exercise
physiologist conducts the exercise portion of the test.
HOW LONG WILL THE TEST TAKE?
The total amount of time this test will take is approximately one hour.
HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR
MY TEST? - Do not have any caffeine
(even decaf!) 12 hours prior to the test.
- Bring a list of your current medications, including dosage and frequency.
Take your medications at your usual time, unless your physician has
indicated otherwise. You may take your medication with juice, milk or a
piece of toast if necessary.
- You may have water or juice before
your stress test, but you should abstain from solid foods for at least two
(2) hours prior to your test. If you are a diabetic, please follow your
normal daily diet regimen.
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes for your stress test. Slacks or shorts
are preferred and shoes should be appropriate for brisk exercise on a
treadmill or a bicycle.
WHAT WILL I EXPERIENCE
DURING THE STRESS ECHO? - Prior to the test you will
be asked to complete a
personal history
questionnaire. This questionnaire must be updated each time you have a
stress test. You will also be asked to read and sign a consent form. This
form provides information regarding the benefits and risks of the stress
test. Please do not hesitate to ask any questions you may have.
- Your skin will be mildly rubbed in
preparation for the test. Several electrodes will then be placed on your
chest. These electrodes will be connected to a monitor so that your heart
rate and rhythm can be watched closely throughout the test.
- A resting echo (ultrasound) will then be performed with specific attention
to your heart muscle, valves and blood flow. All your images will be stored
onto videotape.
- You will then exercise by walking on a
treadmill or pedaling a stationary cycle. Both modes of exercise will start
out slowly and then gradually increase in speed and/or resistance. Your
heart rate and blood pressure will gradually rise. This is normal and both
will be monitored along with your EKG.
- You will be encouraged to continually exercise throughout the stress
exam. If you experience any unusual symptoms at any time (such as chest
pain, shortness of breath or lightheadedness) immediately tell the exercise
physiologist monitoring the test. To increase the accuracy of the test, it
is important to exercise as long as you can. Once you have reached a maximal
effort level, the treadmill (or bike) will stop and you will be asked to
quickly lie down for another echo. You will then be monitored after the
stress test until your heart rate, blood pressure and EKG return to resting
levels.
