Stress Echocardiography
A special type of stress test where you are evaluated using an Echocardiogram (ultrasound of your heart) while exercising on a treadmill. The appointment will take about 60 minutes. The actual exercise time is usually between 7 and 12 minutes.
Why is this test performed?
The test is used to:
- Determine how well your heart tolerates physical activity
- Evaluate the function of your heart and valves
- Determine your likelihood of having coronary artery disease
- Evaluate the effectiveness of your cardiac treatment plan
Should I take my medications the day of the test?
Since many over-the-counter medications contain caffeine (such as diet pills, NoDoz®, Excedrin® and Anacin®), DO NOT take any over-the-counter medication that contains caffeine for 24 hours before the test. Ask your physician, pharmacist or nurse if you have questions about other medications that may contain caffeine.
DO NOT take the following heart medications on the day of your test unless your physician tells you otherwise or if it is needed to treat chest discomfort the day of the test:
- Beta blockers (e.g., atenolol (Tenormin), carvedilol (Coreg), metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol), Propranolol (Inderal))
- Isosorbide dinitrate (e.g., Dilatrate®, Isordil®, Sorbitrate®)
- Isosorbide mononitrate (e.g., Ismo®, Imdur®, Monoket®)
- Nitroglycerin (e.g., Minitran®, Nitro patches®, Nitrostat®)
Your physician may also ask you to stop taking other heart medications on the day of your test. If you have any questions about your medications, ask your physician.
If you use an inhaler for your breathing, please bring it to the test.
NOTE: Do not discontinue any medication without first talking with your physician.
What should I wear on the day of the test?
Please wear or bring comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for walking. Please do not bring valuables.
You will be given a locker to store your belongings during the test.
