Stress Echocardiogram
A stress echocardiogram assesses how your heart and valves perform when your heart is working harder — either through physical exercise or with medication that safely mimics the effects of exercise. It combines ultrasound imaging with a controlled increase in heart rate to help your cardiologist understand how well your heart functions under stress.
Why is it performed?
This test helps diagnose coronary artery disease (narrowing of the heart’s blood vessels) by revealing whether your heart muscle is receiving enough blood when it is required to work harder. It can also evaluate heart valve performance during stress.
A stress echocardiogram is often recommended when other tests performed at rest — such as a standard echocardiogram — do not provide sufficient information.
Many people only experience symptoms of heart disease, such as chest pain or breathlessness, during exertion, making this test a valuable diagnostic tool.
It also allows for a detailed assessment of blood flow, the size of the heart chambers, and how effectively the heart is pumping.
What does the test involve?
Ultrasound images of your heart are taken first while you are at rest. Your heart rate is then increased, either by walking on a treadmill, cycling on an exercise bike, or through a small dose of medication given via a vein.
Once your heart is working harder, further ultrasound images are captured to compare how your heart muscle and valves perform under stress.
- Preparation & Positioning
Initial ultrasound images of your heart are taken while you are resting. Your heart rate is then safely increased through gentle exercise or a small dose of medication.
- During the Scan:
Once your heart is working harder, further ultrasound images are recorded to assess how well your heart muscle and valves perform under stress.
- Safety & Comfort:
The test is closely monitored by trained cardiac staff to ensure your comfort and safety throughout.
After the test
Afterwards, you’ll be observed for a short period while your heart rate and blood pressure return to normal. Most people feel completely well following the procedure and can go home or return to work straight away.
Your cardiologist will carefully analyse the results and discuss them with you at your follow-up appointment. These findings help determine whether further tests, treatment, or lifestyle adjustments are needed to support your heart health.
