Understanding the Benefits of Treadmill Stress Tests for Heart Wellness
A Treadmill Stress Echocardiogram might sound like a mouthful, but it’s just a simple test that helps doctors understand how our hearts work when they’re pushed a little. Let’s take a walk through this procedure.
A Treadmill Stress Echocardiogram is a test that combines an Echocardiogram with a Treadmill Stress Test. It allows doctors to study the capacity of your heart during physical activity and rest.
One of the biggest benefits of a Treadmill Stress Echocardiogram is that it can help spot heart problems early, even before symptoms appear. This early detection can be crucial in preventing serious heart conditions.
This test evaluates your heart’s response to stress or exercise. It can help diagnose coronary artery disease, determine safe levels of exercise, and predict dangerous heart-related conditions.
It also gives doctors a wealth of information about your heart. It can show how well your heart handles work, how large your heart is, and whether your heart is pumping blood properly. All of this can help your doctor understand your heart better.
The results of a Treadmill Stress Echocardiogram can guide your doctor in planning your treatment. It can help decide whether you need more tests, need to start on medication, or need to make lifestyle changes.
If you’re already being treated for a heart condition, a Treadmill Stress Echocardiogram can show how well your treatment is working. It can help your doctor decide whether to change your treatment plan.
Finally, a Treadmill Stress Echocardiogram is a safe and non-invasive procedure. It doesn’t involve any radiation, and there are very few risks associated with it.
What to Expect
You’ll be asked to walk on a treadmill. Small sticky patches called electrodes are attached to your chest. These are connected to an ECG machine that records the electrical signals that make your heartbeat.
The speed and incline of the treadmill will increase gradually. This is to make your heart work harder and beat faster.
While you’re still on the treadmill, a sonographer will take ultrasound images of your heart. These images show how your heart muscles and valves are working when your heart is beating fast.
After the test, you’ll be allowed to cool down under supervision. Your heart rate and blood pressure will be monitored until they return to normal.
The doctor will look at the ECG recordings and the ultrasound images to see if your heart is getting enough blood supply during exercise. This can help diagnose various heart conditions.
Side Effects
Physical Exhaustion Since this test involves physical exercise, you might feel tired afterwards. This is completely normal. Make sure to rest and hydrate after the test.
Irregular Heart Rhythms During the test, some people might experience irregular heart rhythms. These usually go away as soon as the test is over.
Low Blood Pressure Some people might experience a drop in blood pressure during or after the test. This can cause dizziness or fainting.
Chest Pain In rare cases, the test might cause chest pain or even a heart attack. If you feel any discomfort during the test, it’s important to let the medical staff know immediately.
While side effects are possible, remember that a Treadmill Stress Echocardiogram is a safe procedure that provides valuable information about your heart. The medical team will monitor you closely during the test to ensure your safety.
A Treadmill Stress Echocardiogram is a beneficial tool in maintaining heart health. It’s like having a window to your heart, helping you and your doctor keep a close eye on your heart health.
At Sunrise Heart Specialist Clinic, Dr. Woo and his team are dedicated to keeping your heart healthy. With years of experience and a passion for heart health, we provide top-notch care tailored to your needs. Book an appointment today and take the first step towards a healthier heart. Your heart doesn’t rest, and neither do we.