Cardiac and Peripheral Vascular Center
2nd Flr., Podium Building, The Medical City, Ortigas Ave. Pasig City
Operating Hours: Mon – Sat / 8 AM to 5 PM; Sunday and Holidays / 8 AM – 5 PM (but no special procedure)
8-988-1000/8-988-7000 ext. 6299
PATIENT SERVICES
Exercise Stress Echo Testing in the Philippines
What is an Exercise Stress Echocardiogram?
An exercise stress echocardiogram is a diagnostic procedure that combines echocardiography with physical exercise to assess how well the heart functions under stress. This non-invasive stress echo test is done without medicine and instead utilizes ultrasound technology to produce moving images of the heart, allowing healthcare providers to observe the heart's structure and function before and after exercise. During the procedure, patients typically exercise on a treadmill or a stationary bike, which increases the heart rate and mimics the physiological stress that occurs during physical activity.
Who Can Benefit from This Procedure?
Individuals who may benefit from an exercise stress echocardiogram include those experiencing symptoms suggestive of heart disease, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or fatigue during physical activity. It is particularly useful for diagnosing coronary artery disease and evaluating the effectiveness of treatments for existing heart conditions. Additionally, patients undergoing cardiac rehabilitation may be tested to assess their exercise tolerance and monitor their progress.
The procedure may not be suitable for everyone, however. Those with certain heart conditions, such as severe aortic stenosis or unstable angina, may be advised against undergoing this test due to the risks associated with physical exertion.
When Should You Have This Procedure Done?
The decision to undergo an exercise stress echo test in the Philippines should be made in consultation with a cardiologist. It is typically recommended when a patient has symptoms indicative of heart disease or when previous tests have yielded inconclusive results. For instance, if a patient has chest pain that worsens with exertion, a stress echocardiogram can help determine whether the heart is receiving adequate blood flow during exercise. Additionally, it may be indicated for patients with known heart disease to monitor their condition and assess the effectiveness of treatments.
Prior to scheduling the procedure, a thorough evaluation by a doctor is essential to ensure that the patient is fit for exercise and to discuss any potential risks.
How Does the Procedure Work?
The exercise stress echocardiogram involves several key steps. Initially, the patient will undergo a resting echocardiogram, where ultrasound images of the heart are taken while the patient lies still. This provides a baseline for comparison. After the resting images are captured, the patient will begin exercising on a treadmill or stationary bike, gradually increasing the intensity until they reach their target heart rate or experience significant fatigue or discomfort. Throughout the exercise, the patient's heart rate, blood pressure, and ECG (electrocardiogram) will be continuously monitored to assess the heart's response to physical stress. Once the exercise portion is completed, the patient will lie back down for a second set of echocardiogram images to evaluate how the heart's function has changed under stress. The entire process typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour, including preparation and recovery time.
Throughout the exercise, the patient's heart rate, blood pressure, and ECG (electrocardiogram) will be continuously monitored to assess the heart's response to physical stress. Once the exercise portion is completed, the patient will lie back down for a second set of echocardiogram images to evaluate how the heart's function has changed under stress. The entire process typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour, including preparation and recovery time.
What Can You Expect After the Procedure?
After completing the exercise stress echocardiogram in the Philippines, patients can generally resume their normal activities unless otherwise instructed by their doctor. There are typically no special care requirements following the procedure. However, patients may experience some fatigue or mild soreness from the exercise, which is normal. Your doctor will discuss the results of the echocardiogram during a follow-up appointment, explaining whether the heart is functioning adequately under stress and if any further testing or treatment is necessary.
In cases where abnormal results are obtained, additional evaluations may be recommended to investigate potential underlying issues, such as further imaging studies.