Stress echocardiogram

An echocardiogram before and straight after exercise.

What it is

Pictures of the heart are taken at rest and immediately after walking on a treadmill. If part of the heart muscle is short of blood during exercise, it moves differently on the scan.

Why it may be recommended

  • Chest pain or breathlessness with exercise
  • Checking the significance of a known narrowing

Before the test

  • Comfortable shoes and clothing
  • You may be asked to pause some heart tablets

Afterwards

  • Normal activities straight away

Risks

Risks are low; the test is supervised throughout.

Questions about a test?

Dr Ramzy will explain what your results mean at your appointment.