20 March 2019 What is an echocardiogram? An echocardiogram is a diagnostic exam that uses ultrasound to obtain moving images of the heart and surrounding blood vessels . The ultrasounds from the machine ( echograph ) are reflected differently by the heart’s structures and create images on a monitor . An echocardiogram is used to study morphological and functional alterations in the heart . There are different types of echocardiogram. One of them is the pharmacologic stress echocardiogram . What is a pharmacologic stress echocardiogram? A pharmacologic stress echocardiogram is a type of echocardiogram that uses medications to cause the heart to work harder. The exam is used to obtain morphological and functional information about the chambers (atria and ventricles), valves and wall of the heart and particularly the condition of the coronary arteries during exercise. How does a pharmacologic stress echocardiogram work? The pharmacologic stress echocardiogram is performed with the patient lying down . An intravenous drip is used to administer medications that cause the heart to work harder . Transparent gel is applied just left of centre on the chest, where the ultrasound transducer will be placed. The transducer emits a beam of ultrasound that is reflected by the structure through which it passes and is shown in images on the echograph monitor . An electrocardiogram is performed at the same time as the echocardiogram so that they can be compared. Electrodes are placed on the chest for this purpose. The patient’s blood pressure is also measured . During the pharmacologic stress echocardiogram, the transducer is moved around the chest wall. Some pressure may sometimes be necessary. The patient may also be asked to change position. Images are obtained before, during and after administration of the heart stress medications. When is a pharmacologic stress echocardiogram performed? It is always for the doctor to decide whether there is a need for a particular test, depending on the individual characteristics of each patient and their specific complaints or illness . As a rule, a pharmacologic stress echocardiogram may be requested to: Assess the heart’s response to exercise; Diagnose conditions that can only be seen in these circumstances. In some cases, it can replace a treadmill stress test if it is not conclusive or its results raise doubts. Is any preparation necessary for a pharmacologic stress echocardiogram? A pharmacologic stress echocardiogram normally requires fasting for four hours before . How long does a pharmacologic stress echocardiogram take? The duration of a pharmacologic stress echocardiogram can vary. It usually lasts between 30 minutes and one hour. After the echocardiogram, intravenous medications will be administered to reverse the effect of those that caused the heart to work harder. What are the limitations of a pharmacologic stress echocardiogram? As with other exams, a pharmacologic stress echocardiogram can miss lesions and diagnoses , even when the examination is carried out correctly. Are there any side effects, risks or complications associated with a pharmacologic stress echocardiogram? You may feel the following during the exam: Some heat; Palpitations; Mild headache; Dry mouth; Tiredness; Sensation in the chest. These heart-exercise-related effects are temporary, though you should tell the physician or technician about them. Complications of a pharmacologic stress echocardiogram are rare and not severe . At the hospitals and clinics of the Hospital da Luz network, you can find cardiologists who specialise in the diagnosis and treatment of heart disease. This article was written with the support of physicians and other clinical professionals from the Hospital da Luz network . The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
