Stress echocardiogram is a diagnostic procedure
combining : an Echocardiogram (as described above), which uses high frequency
sound waves to assess motion of the heart muscle; and a Stress test, which
assesses the capacity and reserve of heart muscle function under stressful
situations or exercise conditions. As your heart pumps harder and faster when
stressed, and exercise stress test can reveal problems with blood flow in your
heart.
A stress test usually involves walking on a treadmill or riding a
stationary bike while your blood pressure and breathing are monitored. The
Echocardiography employs an ultrasound machine to measure the blood flow
pattern before, during and after your heart has been stressed. The information
obtained will help the doctor to indirectly assess the status of blood supply
to the heart muscle. It also provides indirect information on the viability and
the function of the heart muscle. This information is important and vital to
the doctor in planning further appropriate measures and treatment for you.
At Ascension Heart, we use the treadmill test for an exercise stress
echocardiogram