·        A echocardiogram, also called an echo, is a test that uses ultrasound waves to produce images of the heart.

·        A microphone-like device, called a transducer, sends out ultrasound waves that bounce off the heart to produce images of the heart.

·        When combined with exercise on a treadmill, the echo can detect areas of the heart that are not receiving enough blood flow.

·        A stress echo is especially useful in identifying blockages in arteries that supply blood flow and oxygen to the heart.

·        Identify cause of chest pain, which can occur with blockages in blood flow to heart.

·        Monitor heart function in people with known heart disease.

·        Determine response to treatments after angioplasty or bypass surgery, or response to medications.

·        Do not eat 2 hours prior to your test.

·        Avoid caffeine 12 hours prior to your test.

·        Do not smoke or use any form of nicotine 12 hours prior to your test.

·        Take you medications on the day of the test unless instructed otherwise.

·        Do not apply lotions or powders to the chest.

·        Wear loose, comfortable clothing and walking shoes.

·        You will be given an explanation of the test and asked to sign a consent form.

·        Electrodes are placed on your chest and connected by wires to the ECG machine.

·        While you lie on a exam table, an echo technician moves the transducer over your  chest to obtain images of your heart.

·        A nurse or exercise physiologist supervises the stress portion while you exercise.

·        Your blood pressure is checked frequently, and your ECG is continually monitored.

·        Report any symptoms, such as chest pain, shortness of breath or dizziness.

·        Exercise as long as you can since that increases the accuracy of the test.

·        When you reach to point that you do not feel that you can exercise any longer, the treadmill is stopped abruptly and you return to the exam table.

·        Post-exercise images of your heart are obtained.

·        Your blood pressure and ECG will be monitored for several minutes after the test.

·        Final interpretation of the test results is completed by a cardiologist.

·        The physician ordering your test and family doctor will receive a report within 3 days.