How do I prepare for a stress echocardiography?

This test usually occurs in an echocardiography laboratory, or echo lab, but it can also occur in your doctor’s office or other medical setting. It normally takes between 45 and 60 minutes.

Before you take the test, you should do the following:

• Make sure not to eat or drink anything for three to four hours before the test.
• Don’t smoke on the day of the test because nicotine can interfere with your heart rate.
• Don’t drink coffee or take any medications that contain caffeine without checking with your doctor.
• If you take medications, ask your doctor whether you should take them on the day of the test. You shouldn’t take certain heart medications, such as beta-blockers, isosorbide-dinitrate, isosorbide-mononitrate (Isordil Titradose), and nitroglycerin, before the test. Let your doctor know if you take medication to control diabetes as well.
• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes. Because you will exercise, make sure to wear good walking or running shoes.