Cardiac Health Services

Exercise Stress Echocardiogram (ESE)

What is an  Echo Stress Test?

• A stress echo is a combination of 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. Moving a wand like device over the chest while the patient is lying on their left side does this.
• An echo technician and registered nurse are present during the test. The patient will walk on the treadmill with increasing speed and incline every three 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, 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, four hours prior to the test.
• No smoking for four 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.