A stress echocardiogram is performed in the diagnosis of circulatory disorders. Unlike the resting ECG, here the heart is examined under stress. The patient receives a medication that causes the heart rate to increase. This allows any circulatory disorders of the heart to be confirmed, since these more frequently occur under stress when the heart muscle receives too little oxygen.
It can provide information about
- Circulatory disorders of the heart under stress
- Changes in blood flow due to valve changes under stress
Procedure
As with an echocardiogram, the patient lies resting on their left side. The patient also receives a cannula before the exam, through which the medication to increase the heart rate is given.
Certain medications should be stopped before this examination. This is discussed during the pre-procedure consultation with the patient. A consent form must be signed in advance.
Duration
Approx. 2 hours for preparation and consultation with the doctor, stress echocardiogram
