What is a 2D Echo Test?
2D Echo is a non-invasive, ultrasound test wherein images of the heart are captured when an individual is at rest. These images showcase the structure & working of the heart, displaying a cross-sectional ‘slice’ of the beating heart, chambers, valves & the major blood vessels inside the heart.
When to get a 2D Echo Test Done?
A doctor usually recommends a 2D Echo test when an individual:
- Experiences chest pain due to unknown reasons
- Has had a heart attack
- Has a congenital hrt defect
- Has had rheumatic fever
What is a Stress Test?
Stress test is also a non-invasive procedure. It helps evaluate the working of the heart when it’s subjected to physical stress. It’s also known as exercise stress test or treadmill stress test as it generally involves the use of a treadmill for increasing the heart rate of the individual during the test.
When to get a Stress Test?
Stress test is generally prescribed by a doctor for:
- Diagnosis of heart conditions like coronary artery disease & arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats)
- Monitoring a previously diagnosed heart condition and the impact of an ongoing treatment on it
- Identifying the need of other related tests (like a coronary angiogram) for detecting narrowed arteries
What is the difference between a 2D Echo & Stress Test?
The major difference between 2D echo and stress test is the fact that 2D echo is conducted when an individual is at rest whereas stress test is carried out while the body is under physical stress.
2D echo helps assess the working of the heart in addition to assisting in the detection of abnormal structural changes inside the heart. On the other hand, stress test helps in inspecting how the heart handles physical stress & workload, thus helping determine the level of physical activity that is advisable for an individual.
Conclusion
A strong, well-functioning heart is critical for the prolonged and healthy life of an individual. These two tests play a vital role in ensuring this by helping in the diagnosis of cardiovascular conditions and the subsequent course of treatment that may be required to cure them.
Are you looking to get a 2D echo or stress test done for you or your family member?
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FAQ’s
A regular echocardiogram is generally conducted prior to a stress test.
No, a 2D echo test is different to a stress test, it helps assess the heart’s functioning and structures. On the other hand, a stress test helps evaluate the functioning of the heart when stress is exerted on it through exercise/medications.
A 2D echo test is generally prescribed when the reasons behind the chest pain experienced by an individual are unknown.
Vilcant, Viliane, and Roman Zeltser. “Treadmill Stress Testing.” StatPearls [Internet]. StatPearls Publishing, 2022.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499903/
