What is a stress echocardiogram? A Consultant Cardiologist's guide
A stress echocardiogram is an ultrasound scan of the heart carried out while the heart is working harder, either during exercise or using a medicine that safely raises the heart rate. By comparing the heart at rest and under stress, it shows whether any part of the heart muscle is not receiving enough blood, which can point to significant narrowing in the coronary arteries. It uses sound waves rather than radiation, and it gives functional information that a still image cannot.
The strength of the test is that it reveals how the heart behaves under the kind of demand that provokes symptoms in daily life. A resting scan may look normal, yet a segment of the heart may struggle only when it has to work hard, and that is exactly what a stress echocardiogram is designed to capture. At the Devonshire Street clinic and UME in London the test is supervised and interpreted by Professor Michael Henein, a Professor of Cardiology with internationally recognised cardiac imaging expertise. Interpreting stress imaging well takes considerable experience, and the results are read by the same expert who performs the study.
Who needs a stress echocardiogram in London?
A stress echocardiogram is often recommended for people with chest tightness or breathlessness on exertion, for those with risk factors for coronary artery disease, and for assessing certain valve conditions more fully. It is also used to guide decisions about whether further tests, such as a CT coronary angiogram, are needed, and to check the significance of a narrowing that has already been found. Patients attend from across London, Marylebone, Harley Street and Central London.
What to expect on the day
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Resting images of your heart are recorded first, with small electrodes tracking your rhythm throughout.
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Your heart is then made to work harder, either on a treadmill or bicycle, or with a medicine given through a small cannula.
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Further images are captured at peak effort, and Professor Henein compares them with the resting pictures.
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He discusses the findings with you, and a written report follows shortly after your visit.
Types of stress test offered
Where a patient is able to exercise, an exercise stress echocardiogram is preferred, since it reflects everyday exertion most closely. For those who cannot exercise easily, a pharmacological stress echocardiogram achieves the same assessment using medication to raise the heart rate. The most suitable approach is chosen with you at consultation, taking account of your mobility, symptoms and other conditions.
Why choose Professor Henein for a stress echocardiogram in London
A stress echocardiogram depends heavily on the skill of the clinician who performs and reads it, since the images must be captured and compared at precisely the right moment. Professor Henein is a Consultant Cardiologist and Professor of Cardiology whose imaging expertise is recognised internationally, with fifteen years at Royal Brompton Hospital behind him and extensive academic work worldwide.
Because he manages the complete patient journey, from this assessment through any further imaging, diagnosis and treatment, the result leads directly into a clear plan rather than another referral.
Common questions about a stress echocardiogram in London
What does a stress echocardiogram show?
It shows whether part of the heart muscle is short of blood when the heart works harder, which can indicate significant narrowing in the coronary arteries.
Is a stress echocardiogram safe?
The test is carried out under close supervision, with your rhythm monitored throughout, and it uses ultrasound rather than radiation.
Will I need to exercise?
Where possible, the heart is stressed by exercise on a treadmill or bicycle. If you cannot exercise easily, a medicine is used instead to raise the heart rate.
How should I prepare?
Wear comfortable clothing and footwear. You will be given advice beforehand about any medication to pause.
How soon will I know the results?
The findings are discussed with you immediately after the test, and a written report follows shortly. Any further tests or treatment are explained at the same appointment.
Book a stress echocardiogram in London
To arrange a stress echocardiogram with Professor Michael Henein, contact the clinic at 16 Devonshire Street, London W1G 7AF, in the heart of the Marylebone medical district. Appointments are available to patients across London, Marylebone, Harley Street and the surrounding areas. To book, call +44 20 7228 8546 or email hayley.gibbs@hcaconsultant.co.uk, or use the booking button on this page to request an appointment. Professor Henein oversees each stage of your care, from your first appointment through any imaging, diagnosis and treatment, so your heart is looked after by one experienced consultant throughout.