Stress Echocardiogram
A stress echocardiogram, also called a stress echo, combines a stress test
with an echocardiogram. A stress echo looks at how your heart works. This
test is done with exercise or medicine.
You are to have:
!
An Exercise Stress Test. Bring walking shoes and loose-fitting clothing
so you can move easily. You can wear a hospital gown.
!
A Medicine Stress Test.
Arrive on time for your test. Plan on being here about 2 hours.
To Prepare
• Do not eat solid foods for 4 hours before your test.
• You may drink water, but do not drink liquids with caffeine.
Caffeine is in regular and decaf coffee or tea, chocolate, and soft
drinks.
• Ask your doctor if you should take your medicines the morning
of the test. If so, take with sips of water only.
• Do not smoke for at least 4 hours before the test. Smoking can
affect your test results.
• Nitroglycerin tablets or spray may be used for chest pain as
needed.
• Bring a list of your medicines. Be sure to include any prescriptions and
over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and herbs you take.
During the Test
Tell the doctor right away if you have shortness of breath or chest pain
during the test.
!
Exercise Stress Test
─ Small pads are put on your chest to check your heart. For men, chest
hair may need to be shaved.
─ A blood pressure cuff is put on your arm. Your blood pressure and
heart rate are checked often.
─ You exercise on a treadmill or bike.
─ The exercise gets harder every few minutes.