A stress echocardiogram is a test to determine how well the heart functions under the stress of exercise. The test helps to diagnose the presence or absence of coronary artery disease (blockage of the arteries that supply the heart with oxygen). An echocardiogram (ultrasound of your heart) is performed at rest and peak levels of exercise.

You will be asked to remove any clothing from the waist up and lie on your left side on a examination bed while a series of moving images of your heart will be recorded by moving a small probe on your chest. You will then be asked to walk on a treadmill that increases in speed and incline at pre-determined intervals in order to increase your heart rate. The effectiveness of a stress echocardiogram relies on the effort made by the patient. It is very important that you walk for as long as possible to reach the target workload. Your blood pressure and ECG are monitored throughout the procedure. Should a problem occur, the technologist will stop the test immediately. A nearby cardiologist will be available if necessary. It is very important for you to tell the technologist if you experience any symptoms, such as chest pain, dizziness, unusual shortness of breath, or extreme fatigue. Once you have reached the appropriate heart rate, the treadmill will stop abruptly and you will be asked to quickly return to the echocardiogram examination bed where images of you heart will be taken again and compared to those at rest.

This test will take approximately 45 minutes. Please wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes.