Stress Echocardiogram in Dubai
In the fast-paced, demanding world we live in, our hearts bear the weight of stress, responsibility, and daily challenges.
Yet, amidst the hustle and bustle, there’s a remarkable diagnostic tool that unveils the secrets of our hearts – the Stress Echocardiogram. It’s the window to our cardiovascular health, offering insights that transcend routine check-ups.
What is a Stress Echocardiogram?
A Stress Echocardiogram, or a stress echo, is a medical test that combines an echocardiogram with a treadmill test or a pharmacological agent to evaluate the heart’s function and blood flow.
It is primarily used to diagnose and evaluate heart conditions, particularly coronary artery disease (CAD).
What are the types of Stress Echocardiograms?
Exercise Stress Echocardiogram | Pharmacological Stress Echocardiogram |
This procedure combines echocardiogram with exercise usually performed on a treadmill or bicycle. The electrical activity of the heart is continuously monitored during exercise. | This procedure uses medications, like dobutamine or vasodilators, to increase the heart rate as if the patient is exercising. This test is suitable for patients who cant exercise due to various health conditions. |
What is Treadmill Stress Echocardiogram?
A stress echocardiogram is used to determine the effects of exercise on the heart function. A stress echo involves walking on a treadmill while continuously monitoring your heart’s electrical activity.
During the exercise there is a gradual increase in treadmill’s speed and incline, revealing how well the heart can handleexercise stress
Who needs Stress Echocardiogram?
The test may be recommended if you are experiencing symptoms of heart disease, especially if they get worse with activity:
- Chest pain or chest discomfort
- Dizziness or lightheadedness.
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Shortness of breath
Other people who might need a stress test to rule out heart disease include:
- Athletes
- Prior to elective surgery.
How to prepare for a Stress Echocardiogram?
- Do not eat or drink for 2-3 hours before the test
- Avoid engaging in strenuous physical activity on the test day.
- Don’t smoke before the test.
- Wear loose, comfortable, exercise-appropriate clothing and skip oils or lotions before the test.
- Follow your medication routine unless directed otherwise by your doctor.
What to expect during the Exercise Stress Echocardiogram?
An exercise stress echo typically follows the following process:
- Electrodes are attached to your chest, connecting to a monitor for heart rhythmmonitoring. A blood pressure cuff records your blood pressure during exercise.
- An initial EKG and echocardiogram are performed to assess the heart function at rest
- You then exercise on a treadmill, gradually increasing intensity, aiming to reproduce symptoms or achieve your target heart rate in about 09-12 minutes.
- After reaching your target heart rate, a repeat echocardiogram is performed to evaluate the function of the heart on stress.
- It’s normal for heart and breathing rates to rise during exercise, and some unsteadiness might be felt after stepping off the treadmill or bike.
What does the result of a Stress Echocardiogram indicate?
Positive | There is a high likelihood that you might be suffering from blockages in your coronary arteries. Your Cardiologist may recommend furthertests and start you on medications. |
Negative | Your risk of coronary artery disease is likely low. |