Exercise Stress Echo Test

An Exercise Stress Echo Test is used to help a doctor diagnose coronary heart disease, which is caused by narrowed or blocked arteries.

This test combines an echocardiogram (also called a cardiac ultrasound) with a stress test. Several electrodes (small, sticky patches) leading to a monitor are placed on the patient's chest to monitor the heartbeat during the test. Then, the patient walks on a treadmill. The treadmill begins to move slowly. The speed and incline gradually increase until the patient reaches an appropriate heart rate and cannot continue. At that time, post echo images are taken. If an area of the heart is not receiving enough blood, the heart muscle will show a decrease in pumping power when compared to the resisting image, indicating a potential arterial blockage.

The results help the doctor accurately diagnose the patient's condition and develop a personalized treatment plan.

The text takes approximately an hour and is routinely conducted at AVH.

For more information about an Exercise Stress Echo Test, please call (603) 326-5847.