Cardiac Health Services

Exercise Stress Echocardiogram (ESE)

What is an  Echo Stress Test?

• A stress echo is a combination or 2 noninvasive tests – a treadmill stress test (GXT) and an echocardiogram.
• Electrodes are placed on the chest to monitor the rate and rhythm of the heart before, during, and after the test.
• An echocardiogram is done at rest, and then at peak heart rate, or peak exercise.
• These images are stored on a disc for future reference.
• The echocardiogram uses sound waves, or sonar, to look at and measure the structures of the heart. This is done by moving a wand like device over the chest while the patient is lying on their left side.
• An echo technician, registered nurse, and cardiologist are generally present during the test. The patient will walk on the treadmill with increasing speed and incline every 3 minutes, until an age specific heart rate is obtained. This usually takes several to 15 minutes.
• The test is stopped if the patient develops symptoms, or cannot continue due to fatigue.
• The staff will be looking for EKG changes, symptoms, and blood pressure changes.
• At the peak of exercise, or when the doctor obtains the information he wants, the treadmill is stopped and the patient quickly lies on their left side on a bed. An echocardiogram is taken and then compared to the images taken at rest.
• The patient stays in the testing room for a short amount of time after their test while their heart rate, ekg, and blood pressure return to normal.
• Preparation, and the test itself takes about 60 minutes.
• The test must be ordered by a doctor, and be scheduled.

Why is the ESE Ordered?

• The test will help the doctor to evaluate the patient’s cardiac condition related to:
• Overall level of cardiovascular conditioning.
• Irregular heart rhythms, and at what point they develop.
• How hard the heart can work before symptoms occur.
• If there is a decreased blood supply to the heart at rest, or with exertion.

What Preparation is Needed? 

• No eating or drinking, other than water, 4 hours prior to the test.
• No smoking for 4 hours prior to the test.
• No ointments, lotion, or powder to the chest area before the test. Deodorant can be used.
• Wear comfortable clothing, and walking or jogging shoes.
• It’s important for the patient to ask their doctor:
• If on Beta Blockers, should they stop taking these 72 hours (3 days) before the test.
• How to adjust food, insulin, and oral diabetes medicines before the test.
• If they should take their regular medicines the day of the test.                   

Registration

• Registration will occur in the Cardiac Health Services department. You will need to bring a picture I.D. (such as a driver’s license), insurance cards, and any paperwork from the doctor. Bring a list of the medications you take.
• Plan to arrive 30 minutes before the test to allow time for preparation.
• Enter the hospital through the Outpatient Building.
• Take the elevators to Cardiac Health Services department, which is located on the second floor.
• If you have any questions call 966-8091 or 966-8199.