Stress Echocardiogram

Echocardiogram Stress Test

What is an echocardiogram stress test?

An echocardiogram stress test or stress echo test determines how well your heart and blood vessels are working before and after exercise. It can also be called an exercise stress test or stress echo. The test involves exercising on a treadmill or stationary bike while your doctor monitors your blood pressure and heart rhythm.

What is the difference between a stress test and a stress echo test?

There is no difference, but the same test might be called slightly different names by your medical teams. A stress echo test, an echocardiogram stress test, a stress echo and an exercise stress echocardiogram are all the same tests.

What does a stress echo test show?

Before and after the period of exercise, the cardiac physiologist will take ultrasound images of your heart. These images can determine whether enough blood is getting to your heart muscle or if a narrowing of the arteries is restricting the supply.
It will provide your doctor with information on how your heart is functioning under stress. If you cannot exercise, your doctor may give you an intravenous drug called dobutamine to mimic the effect of exercise on your heart.

Why do I need a stress echo test?

Your doctor may refer you if you’ve been experiencing symptoms such as:

chest pain
shortness of breath
fatigue.

Mature female doctor using stethoscope on senior male patient while having heart stress test on treadmill at cardiology clinic

What happens during a stress echo test?

Exercise Stress Echo

What to expect

A cardiac sonographer will attach small metal disks, called ECG electrodes to your chest. These electrodes attach to a machine that monitors your heart rhythm during this test. They will also take your blood pressure. No radiation or X-ray is used.
A cool gel will be placed on your skin and the sonographer will move a handheld wand across your chest to take the ultrasound images of your heart.
You will then walk on a treadmill or ride a stationary bike for around 10 minutes. The incline and speed will gradually increase to make it feel like you are walking or cycling uphill. Tell your doctor immediately if you feel unwell or have any chest pains.
Once you have stopped exercising, the technician will perform another ultrasound.
You may be asked to hold your breath briefly during the ultrasound.

How to prepare for your stress echo test

How long does the test take?

The echocardiogram stress test usually takes around 30-45 minutes to complete, but it’s a good idea to allow up to one hour for the entire test, including preparation, imaging, testing and post-test observation.

What should I do before the test?

Consult your referring doctor about whether you should stop taking or change any current medications before your appointment. If you are unable to exercise, please let your doctor know before the test so that a more appropriate test can be arranged.

Can I eat before the test?

You can eat a light meal before the test, but it is not advisable to eat a large amount as this may make you feel unwell during the exercise part of the test.

What should I do on the day of the test?

On the day of your echocardiogram stress test:

Bring a list of your current medications.
Wear a two-piece outfit and comfortable footwear that’s suitable for exercising.
Do not wear talc, body lotion or neck chains.
Do not consume caffeine, alcohol or nicotine for 2 hours before the test.

What happens before the test?

You will need to undress to the waist. You may request a gown for privacy.
You may be required to have part of the chest area shaved.
Electrodes will be placed onto the chest and an electrocardiogram (ECG) lead connected and worn on a belt around your waist.
Sometimes a gown is worn over the electrodes.

What happens during the test?

You will be supervised by an experienced doctor and cardiac technician.
Your blood pressure and heart rate will be monitored continuously.
The test will be stopped when the doctor feels it is appropriate.

What happens after the test?

You will be monitored for 5 minutes after completing the exercise.
You’ll be provided with water and a towel.
You will be asked to remain seated in reception for a further 10 minutes to ensure you are fully recovered before leaving.
A full report will be sent to your doctor after a cardiologist has reviewed the results.

Can I drive home after the test?

Once your observation time is complete and your doctors are happy for you to leave, you can resume normal activities and drive yourself home.

Is the echocardiogram stress test safe?

Complications and side effects are rare but can include:

Dizziness or fainting
Abnormal heart rhythm
Development of heart failure or heart pain

A full list of potential complications and side effects will be provided at your appointment.
This test is non-invasive and experienced medical staff are in attendance throughout your test to manage any complications. Please discuss any concerns with your doctor or the testing team before starting the test.

Is the test accurate?

The ultrasound aims to provide accurate information about your heart. Results may indicate the need for further tests.

How much does an echocardiogram stress test cost?

Costs vary. You may be able to claim all or part of the test costs under Medicare.
Speak to your Advara HeartCare cardiologist or your GP to find out if you are eligible to claim and what fees may apply.

How do I make an appointment with Advara HeartCare?

If you have a referral from your GP you can make an appointment for your stress echo test with Advara HeartCare.

With over 65 locations, Advara HeartCare is Australia’s largest cardiology provider with centres in or around most major metropolitan areas. Click below to find a stress echo test near Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth or Adelaide today.

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This information is of a general nature. If you are concerned about your heart health, discuss this with your local doctor.

Learn about some of the other heart tests and services provided by Advara HeartCare

Resting (ECG)

An echocardiogram, also known as a resting echo or echo, is the most common type of heart ultrasound your cardiologist uses to assess the health of your heart.

Learn More