Stress echo

Stress Echo

A Stress Echo or Stress Echocardiogram is a diagnostic test used in medicine, specifically in the field of cardiology. It combines an Echocardiogram with a stress test to evaluate the heart's response to stress or exercise.

Procedure

The Stress Echo is performed in two parts. Initially, a resting Echocardiogram is taken to capture images of the heart while at rest. Following this, the patient is subjected to a period of exercise or a medication is administered to simulate the effects of exercise on the heart. A second Echocardiogram is then taken immediately after the stressor to capture images of the heart under stress.

Uses

The primary use of a Stress Echo is to diagnose and evaluate coronary artery disease. It can also be used to determine safe levels of exercise in patients with existing heart conditions, to evaluate the effectiveness of cardiac treatments, and to predict risk of dangerous heart-related conditions such as heart attack.

Risks

While generally safe, a Stress Echo carries a small risk of serious complications. These can include abnormal heart rhythms, heart attack, or, in rare cases, death. These risks are increased in people with severe heart disease or poor physical fitness.

See Also

• Echocardiogram
• Stress test
• Coronary artery disease

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