Stress Echocardiogram Westmead (Stress Echo)

Looking to book an stress echocardiogram in Westmead?

At Heartcare Sydney, we provide quick access to stress echo testing right here in our Westmead clinic. You can book directly—no long waitlists—and receive specialist-led results.

What is a stress echocardiogram?

Stress echocardiogram (sometimes called stress echo) combines a treadmill stress test with an echocardiogram to evaluate how your heart performs under physical stress. During the test, a trained sonographer performs an ultrasound of your heart at rest and immediately after exercise. The two sets of images are compared to see how blood flow and heart muscle contraction change. This helps detect coronary artery disease, valve problems and arrhythmias earlier than resting tests.

When is a stress echo recommended?

A stress echo may be requested to:

Assess symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath or fatigue that occur during exertion.
Evaluate known or suspected coronary artery disease or monitor the severity of valvular disease.
Determine exercise tolerance before surgery or starting cardiac rehabilitation.
Investigate exercise‑induced arrhythmias (Abnormal heartbeats).

Preparing for your appointment

Clothing: wear comfortable, loose‑fitting clothes and supportive sneakers.
Fasting: Avoid heavy meals for 3–4 hours beforehand.
Medications: bring a list of your medications and ask your doctor if you need to pause any medicines.
Caffeine and nicotine: refrain from consuming caffeine and nicotine for 24 hours before the test.

What to expect on the day?

Baseline ultrasound: while you rest on a bed, the sonographer performs an initial echocardiogram to obtain baseline images of your heart.
Stress phase: you will walk on a treadmill; the speed and incline gradually increase to raise your heart rate. Your heart rhythm, blood pressure and symptoms are monitored throughout.
Immediate post‑exercise ultrasound: as soon as you finish exercising, the sonographer repeats the scan to capture your heart while it’s still working hard.
Recovery: Our team monitors your heart rate as it returns to normal and then discusses the results and next steps.

Is a stress echocardiogram safe? What does it feel like?

Yes. It’s an ultrasound-based test, so there’s no ionising radiation. Most people describe it as a gentle, supervised treadmill session:

We start at an easy walking pace, then increase speed (and sometimes incline) every 2–3 minutes.
You’re continuously monitored with ECG leads, blood pressure checks, and a sonographer records heart images before and after exercise.
You’re in control — tell us if you want to stop, and we’ll stop straight away.
Rare risks include abnormal rhythms, low blood pressure, dizziness, or chest discomfort. An experienced team is with you at all times to manage any issues promptly.

How to book a stress echocardiogram at Heartcare Sydney?

Call 02 8401 9598 or use our online registration form to schedule your stress echo. We are located across from Westmead Public Hospital; use our Google Business Profile for directions. Patients from Parramatta and neighbouring suburbs are only a few minutes away. For referring doctors, please fill out our online cardiac referral form or contact us directly for urgent referrals