Cardiovascular Testing
Stress Echocardiogram
The stress echo combines the exercise tolerance test with an ultrasound of the heart, performed before and after exercise. This test looks at the squeezing function of the heart before and after exercise, which is an indication of blood flow. Normally, heart function becomes stronger after exercise; if there are blockages in the heart arteries, the muscle may become weaker.
Why a stress echocardiogram
A resting echocardiogram shows how the heart functions in calm conditions. A stress echocardiogram shows how it functions under demand, which is often where early signs of coronary disease, valve abnormalities, or exercise intolerance become visible.
The test looks at the squeezing function of the heart before and after exercise, which is an indication of blood flow. Normally, the heart becomes stronger after exercise. If there are blockages in the heart arteries, the muscle may become weaker.
Your cardiologist may recommend a stress echocardiogram to evaluate chest pain with exertion, assess exercise capacity, screen for coronary artery disease, or monitor known cardiac conditions during a return to physical activity..
Exercise Tolerance Test (ETT)
The most common type of stress test, the ETT involves walking on a treadmill to increase heart rate and blood pressure. It checks for abnormal blood flow to the heart due to blocked arteries and shows how the heart responds to exercise, providing information that may not be apparent on a resting electrocardiogram. Results may help explain symptoms you have reported to your physician.
What to expect
Duration
Stress Echocardiograms are booked for 1 hour, including the preparation, the test itself, and recovery.
Preparation
Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes. Your care team will advise on any medications that may need to be adjusted.
During the test
A baseline echocardiogram is performed first. You then exercise on a treadmill while cardiac imaging continues.
After the test
Your results are interpreted by your Lown Group cardiologist and shared with you in the context of your overall cardiovascular care.
Learn about membership
Our membership includes a thoughtful onboarding process to ensure The Lown Group is the right fit for your care needs. Our team is available to answer questions.
