Cardiac Stress Testing
For patients capable of performing an exercise test, exercise stress testing is preferred, as exercise capacity is a significant predictor of long-term outcomes.
Stress Echocardiography (Stress Echo)
Stress echocardiography (Stress Echo) is a radiation-free diagnostic tool used as a first-line option whenever possible. It is highly effective in detecting coronary artery disease (CAD) and provides excellent diagnostic information. Stress Echo is also more sensitive than Exercise Treadmill Stress Testing (GXT) alone in identifying CAD and offers detailed insights into the presence of multi-vessel disease.
Special Instructions
Do not wear body lotion or perfume on the day of your test.
Wear comfortable exercise clothing, including a two-piece outfit (e.g., separate top and bottoms) if possible. Female patients will be provided with a gown to cover the upper body during the test.
Bring running shoes or other suitable exercise footwear and a bottle of water.
You may have a light breakfast (e.g., toast and juice) on the morning of the test but avoid caffeine (e.g., tea, coffee, decaffeinated beverages, chocolate, or soda).
Bring a list of all current medications.
Do not stop any medications unless specifically instructed by your physician.
During the Test
A cardiology technologist will perform the Stress Echo test under the supervision of a cardiologist.
The technologist will attach sticky patches (electrodes) to your chest and abdomen. For male patients, small areas of skin may need to be shaved to ensure proper contact. Female patients will be provided with a gown to cover the upper body.
You will exercise on a treadmill, starting at a slow pace that gradually increases in intensity. It is important to exercise as long as you can to maximize the effectiveness of the test.
Echo images will be taken at two points: before exercise and immediately after. Additionally, your heart’s electrical activity will be monitored using ECG tracings during the test.
Symptoms and Safety
Mild shortness of breath during exercise is normal, but notify the technologist immediately if you:
Experience chest pain or tightness.
Feel light-headed, dizzy, or faint.
Want to stop the test for any reason.
Note: Medical staff and emergency equipment are available if needed.
After the Test
The technologist will remove the electrodes from your skin. Some mild redness may appear where the electrodes were attached; this usually resolves without treatment.
You can return to your normal daily activities unless instructed otherwise.
Duration and Results
The test itself lasts approximately 45 minutes, but you should allow about one hour for the entire appointment. A cardiologist will review the ECG tracings and Echo images, and the results will be sent to your referring physician.
Important Information for Your Appointment
Please arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled test to register at the reception desk.
Bring the following items:
Your valid OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan) card (to each scheduled appointment).
A requisition form, if provided to you directly by your physician or nurse practitioner.
(Note: If your physician or nurse practitioner did not fax the referral to our office, you must bring the requisition form signed by your physician to your appointment.)Comfortable exercise clothing and running shoes.
A bottle of water (optional).