Exercise Stress Echocardiography (Stress Echo)

Exercise Stress Echocardiography (Stress Echo)

At Cardiac Network Australia in Auburn, we provide Exercise Stress Echocardiography, often called a stress echo, to assess how your heart performs when it’s working harder than usual. This test helps identify heart problems that may not be visible when your heart is at rest.

An Exercise Stress Echocardiogram combines two key assessments:

1. Treadmill Exercise Test – You will walk on a treadmill (or sometimes use a stationary bike) to gradually increase your heart rate while your blood pressure and heart rhythm are carefully monitored.

2. Echocardiogram (Heart Ultrasound) – Ultrasound images of your heart are taken before and immediately after exercise to show how well your heart muscle and valves are functioning under stress.

This test allows your doctor to:

• Detect heart conditions that only appear during physical activity.

• Evaluate whether your heart is getting enough blood supply during exercise.

• Measure your exercise capacity and overall heart performance.

• Guide treatment for symptoms such as chest pain, breathlessness, or known heart disease.

What to Expect:
The test usually takes about 45–60 minutes. You’ll be asked to wear comfortable clothes and walking shoes. Small electrodes will be placed on your chest to monitor your heartbeat throughout the test. As you exercise, your doctor and technician will watch your heart function in real time.

The exercise will stop if you reach your target heart rate or feel unwell. Afterward, ultrasound images are taken again to compare your heart’s activity before and after exercise.

Safety and Comfort:
Stress echo is a safe, non-invasive procedure that does not involve radiation. You can eat lightly before your appointment and continue most regular medications, unless your doctor advises otherwise.

This valuable test helps us assess your heart’s health, detect hidden problems early, and ensure you receive the most appropriate care for your condition.