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Preparation
During a stress ECHO, your heart rate and blood pressure will be measured while you walk on a treadmill
or ride a bike. Your heart rhythm will be monitored on a screen. A technician will take ultrasound
pictures at rest and after exercise. Preparation for this test is minimal.
- Medication: Refrain from taking your blood pressure and other heart medications (except warfarin (coumadin) therapy) the night before and the day of your study. You can take your cholesterol medication as scheduled. If you're not sure which medications you should not take, please ask Dr. Moore.
- Clothing: Wear loose comfortable clothing and comfortable walking shoes. You'll walk on a treadmill or ride a bike, so dress appropriately. Please do not wear dresses or open-toed shoes. Do not wear perfume, lotions, oils or powders on your chest.
- Consent: Prior to the test, you'll be asked to sign a consent form. Please don't hesitate to ask questions prior to the test.
Test
During this test, you'll:
- Have EKG electrodes attached to your chest and a blood pressure cuff attached to your arm
- Walk on a treadmill
An ultrasound probe will take pictures of your heart at rest and after exercise. The two sets of images
will be compared to detect any stress induced abnormalities of heart function. These abnormalities can
be seen in patients with blocked arteries (CAD) and weakened heart muscle (cardiomyopathy).
If your test results indicate a problem, Dr. Moore may order more tests. He also will work with you to
create an appropriate care plan to address the problem. Resume your normal medication schedule after
the test.
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