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 A
stress echocardiogram incorporates cardiac stress testing with
echocardiographic imaging. A
cardiac stress is an exercise tolerance test designed to
increase an individual's heart rate - to "stress"
the heart while hooked up to an EKG. This is performed
and monitored by a medical professional who is looking for any
abnormalities that suggest the presence of heart
disease. The test is used to detect certain
abnormalities, to monitor patients with known heart disease
and to check the effectiveness of treatment or surgery.
You
will be interviewed and prepared for your stress test.
Electrode patches will be placed on your chest. You will
have a baseline EKG done and your blood pressure will be
checked. Any questions that you have will be answered.
Prior
to exercise an echocardiogram will be performed acquiring 4
images of your heart.
An
echocardiogram (ECHO) is an ultrasound of your heart.
The heart is viewed on a screen with the use of a transducer
and ultrasound gel. The study is recorded on a video
tape.
The
transducer is a small probe that emits sound waves. The
sound waves travel through the gel to your heart and create a
picture of your heart on the video screen.
The
ECHO allows the cardiologist to determine the following how
well the heart is pumping, blood flow, valve structure &
heart size.
Following
the echocardiogram you will begin to exercise on the
treadmill. The
purpose of the test is to gradually increase your heart rate.
It
is important that you report any chest pain, chest pressure,
shortness of breath, pain in your arms or neck, tiredness or
any other discomfort you may feel while performing the test.
The
test is geared to your age, health status, and ability.
Your test may be terminated at any time.
Immediately
after exercise another echocardiogram will be taken of your
heart. During this time there will continued monitoring
of your EKG and vital signs.
Upon
completion of the study, a cardiologist will interpret the
results. A report will be forwarded to your cardiologist
and primary care physician. Unless otherwise instructed,
you should make an appointment with your cardiologist or
physician to discuss the results of the test.
The
exercise test may cause (in some people): skipped heart beats,
chest pain, in very rare instances; a heart attack, in
extremely rare instances; death. These occurrences are
extremely rare. Every effort is made to avoid or
minimize these occurrences. Personnel and equipment are
readily available if such an event should occur.
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