Exercise Echo & Echo/Doppler

A Stress Echocardiogram (often called a stress echo) is a heart test that combines an echocardiogram (heart ultrasound) with exercise to assess how your heart functions under physical stress.

At WA Cardiology, Stress Echocardiography is used to assess heart muscle function, blood flow and valve performance when the heart is working harder.

A baseline Echocardiogram is required prior to a Stress Echo as a separate appointment. This baseline information is used as a comparison during the Stress Echo and to make sure it is safe to proceed with the Stress Echo.

Your doctor may request a Stress Echo to:

• Investigate chest pain, shortness of breath or exercise-related symptoms
• Assess for coronary artery disease
• Evaluate heart muscle blood supply during exertion
• Assess heart valve function during exercise
• Investigate abnormal exercise ECG findings
• Guide management of known heart disease
• Assess fitness for surgery or exercise programs

A Stress Echocardiogram can show:

• How well the heart muscle contracts during exercise
• Areas of the heart that may not be receiving enough blood flow
• Changes in heart function that only occur with exertion
• Heart valve performance under stress

Comparing images before and immediately after exercise helps identify problems not seen at rest.

Yes. A Stress Echo is very safe.

The test is supervised by trained clinical staff. Your heart rhythm, blood pressure and symptoms are monitored throughout, and the test can be stopped at any time if you feel unwell or reach your limit.

Your safety is the highest priority during the test.

Please follow these instructions:

• Avoid eating a large meal for 2–3 hours before the test.
• Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes.
• Take your medications as directed by your referring doctor (some medications may need to be withheld – you will be advised by your GP if this applies).

During the procedure:

• ECG electrodes and a blood pressure cuff are applied.
• A baseline ECG, Blood Pressure and Echocardiogram images are taken.
• You will exercise on either a bike or treadmill that gradually increases in difficulty.
• You will be asked to exercise to the best of your ability to achieve at least a minimum heart rate which is based on your age.
• Immediately after exercise, repeat ultrasound images of your heart are taken.
• Your heart rhythm, blood pressure and symptoms are monitored throughout.

You may be asked how hard you are working and whether you are experiencing any symptoms.

The exercise portion usually lasts 6–12 minutes.

Allow 30 minutes in total for preparation, testing and recovery.

No. The test is not painful.

You will experience physical exertion similar to a brisk walk or cycle. You may stop the test at any time if you feel uncomfortable.

Yes.

The test can be stopped at any time if you feel chest discomfort, become short of breath, feel dizzy or unwell or are unable to continue exercising. Please note that if you stop the test prior to reaching a pre-determined target heart rate, the test may be deemed inconclusive.

• You will be monitored briefly during recovery.
• ECG electrodes are removed.
• You may return to normal activities unless advised otherwise.

A Cardiologist reviews the Stress Echo.

If significant or concerning findings are identified, they are communicated promptly.

A detailed report is sent to your referring Doctor, who will discuss the results with you.

Please allow up to 5 business days for your results to be with your referring Doctor.

In most cases, Medicare provides a rebate when:

• You have a valid referral from a GP or Specialist.
• The test meets Medicare eligibility criteria.

• Tell staff immediately if you feel unwell during the test.
• Seek urgent medical attention if symptoms occur after leaving the clinic.
• In an emergency, call 000.

If you need to change your appointment, please contact WA Cardiology as early as possible so the appointment can be offered to another patient.

If you have questions before or after your Stress Echocardiogram, please contact WA Cardiology — our clinical and administrative team are happy to help.