Do you need stress testing, an echocardiogram, or both? Take a look at the reasons to get these diagnostic cardiac tests and the differences between each option.

Should You Get a Stress Test?

Also known as an exercise stress test, this cardiac diagnostic tool helps the medical provider better understand how the patient's heart works or pumps when active. This can help the doctor to diagnose conditions such as coronary artery disease or arrhythmias.

The typical test requires the patient to walk or run on a treadmill as the provider measures their heart rhythm, blood pressure, and heart rate. Some doctors may give patients a drug that produces the same physical effects as exercise — but without the need for activity.

Most patients who don't have cardiac symptoms won't require a stress test, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. Unlike an annual physical, a stress test is not a preventative service. Instead, the doctor may recommend this test if you have unexplained chest pain, shortness of breath, rapid/irregular heartbeat, or a family history of cardiac conditions.

Should You Get an Echocardiogram?

Unlike a stress test, an echocardiogram doesn't require exercise or strenuous activity. This type of cardiac test uses sound waves to create images of the heart. The doctor uses these images to assess heart function.

Like a stress test, this imaging study isn't part of a routine exam. It isn't likely your medical provider will recommend this test without cardiac symptoms of a significant family history of heart disease. Symptoms that may require an echocardiogram include chest pain, shortness of breath, and other issues that could also result in a stress test.

Should You Get Both Tests?

Some doctors recommend a combination stress test and echocardiogram. A medical provider will take an ultrasound image of the heart to start the stress echocardiogram. After the cardiac ultrasound, the patient will walk on a treadmill or take a medication that mimics the effects of this type of exercise. The patient will then have another echocardiogram after the activity or medication.

This type of cardiac test can help the doctor to diagnose heart conditions such as coronary artery problems or blockages. The combination of tests is used when either a stress test or echocardiogram alone aren't clear enough for the doctor to accurately find or diagnose a cardiac issue.

If you're not sure whether you need stress testing, an echocardiogram, or a stress echocardiogram, talk to your doctor about the benefits of each option.