Stress testing

Echocardiogram

An echocardiogram is a picture of the heart using ultrasound (sound waves). It is used to evaluate the structures of the heart, the pumping function of the heart and the heart valves.

Preparing for an echocardiogram (PDF)

Dobutamine stress echocardiogram

A dobutamine stress echocardiogram is an ultrasound study of your heart that is helpful in finding narrowing of the coronary arteries (the blood vessels that supply the heart). An ultrasound uses sound waves to create a picture of the heart. Dobutamine is a medication that has an effect on the heart that is similar to exercise. It is used for patients who can’t exercise as needed for a regular stress echocardiogram.

Preparing for a dobutamine stress echocardiogram (PDF)

Stress echocardiogram

A stress echocardiogram, also called an exercise echo, combines an ultrasound study of your heart with exercise. A stress echo is helpful in evaluating chest discomfort and in detecting narrowing of the blood vessels that supply the heart muscle (coronary arteries).

Preparing for a stress echocardiogram (PDF)

Nuclear cardiology testing

This special imaging test evaluates the blood supply to your heart. Radioactive tracers are used to make your heart and blood vessels visible using special scanners. During this test, you will use a treadmill and be monitored by electrocardiogram to record the electrical activity of your heart. If you are unable to run on a treadmill, this test may be done using adenosine, a medication that artificially stresses your heart.

 Preparing for a treadmill test with nuclear imaging (PDF)

 Preparing for a pharmacologic stress test with nuclear imaging (PDF)

Tilt-table testing

During a tilt-table test, your blood pressure and heart rate are measured in response to changing positions. This test can be used to diagnose causes for fainting, especially a disorder called neurally mediated syncope.