Have you ever had an 'Echo test'? Or maybe you've even heard of it? Most of us know about this scan that is done to check the functioning of the heart. But today I'm going to talk about a similar, but slightly more advanced, special test that can measure the functioning of the heart muscle in a very precise way. This is called a 'Strain Echocardiogram'. This can detect even small changes that a regular Echo cannot detect.
Simply put, what is this Strain Echocardiogram?
Okay, let's put this simply. This is also an ultrasound. That is, a method of looking inside the body using high-frequency sound waves. It's like a scan for a mother who is about to have a baby. But it takes moving pictures of your heart and very precisely measures how the length of your heart muscle (myocardium) changes as it contracts and expands (during contraction and relaxation).
Think of it like stretching a rubber band. It's like seeing how well it stretches and snaps back into place. This test measures the flexibility and function of the heart muscle in a very subtle way. This allows doctors to detect these subtle changes in the functioning of the heart as soon as there is a problem, before symptoms appear. This can be a great help in diagnosing a disease early and getting an idea of its future course.
In what cases is this test performed?
There are several reasons why a doctor might recommend this test for you. The main ones are:
- Monitor people undergoing cancer treatment: This test is very important to know in advance if the heart is being damaged when using certain anticancer medications (cardio-toxic medications), that is, medications that can have an effect on the heart.
- Screening for people who have had radiation to the chest: Radiation to the chest area can sometimes affect the heart. This is used to check for conditions like this.
- Assess various heart conditions:
- Monitor people with conditions that weaken the heart muscle (cardiomyopathy).
- Monitor the condition of people with heart failure. This is especially true before and after the implantation of certain types of pacemakers, for example, a biventricular pacemaker.
- Check for pericardial disease.
In summary, doctors use this test whenever they need to detect even the most subtle changes in heart function early.
How to prepare for the test?
The best part is that this test doesn't require much preparation. But keep these things in mind.
| Fact | Description |
|---|---|
| Food and drink | You can eat and drink normally on the day of the test. There are no restrictions. |
| Medicines | If you are taking medications prescribed by a doctor, take them as prescribed and as usual. |
| Clothes | You can wear whatever you like, but you will need to wear a hospital gown from the waist up before the test. |
| Valuable things | It's a good idea to leave valuables like jewelry and money at home. |
| Asking questions | The staff will explain to you how the test is done and what may happen during it. If you have any questions, don't be afraid to ask. |
What happens during the test?
The entire test usually takes about an hour. It is done in an echo lab. During the test, the following things happen:
1. Electrode placement: First, a trained technician (sonographer) will place three small, flat stickers on your chest. These are called ``electrodes.'' These are connected by wires to an ``EKG'' machine. This records the electrical activity of your heart throughout the test.
2. Correct position: You will be turned to your left and lie on an examination table. Sometimes you will be asked to place your left arm above your head.
3. Scanning: Next, a small, handheld device called a ``transducer'' is moved over several areas of your chest. A small amount of gel is applied to the tip of this device. This gel helps to obtain clear images without damaging the skin.
4. Changing positions: Because images need to be taken from different sides of the heart, you will be asked to change positions several times during the test.
5. Holding your breath: Sometimes, you may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds to get a clear picture.
How will you feel during the test?
Since this is a non-invasive test, you won't feel any discomfort. However, you may experience the following:
- The gel on the device makes the skin feel slightly cold .
- You will feel some pressure being applied to your chest as the device takes clear pictures.
- You can hear noises coming from the machine.
What happens after the test?
After the test is over, you can change your clothes and go home or go about your other activities. There are no side effects from this test.
The results of the test are carefully reviewed by a cardiologist and sent to your treating doctor. Your doctor will then discuss the results with you , explain what the images of your heart show, and whether you need any treatment.
It's normal to feel a little scared and nervous when you hear about a heart test. But remember, this is a very safe and painless test. The only discomfort you'll feel is the pressure of the device pressing against your skin.
Take-Home Message
- A strain echocardiogram is an advanced version of a standard echo test that allows for very precise measurements of the function of the heart muscle.
- This is a painless, safe ultrasound scan.
- This is very important for early detection of conditions such as heart muscle weakness and patients taking cancer medications that can affect the heart.
- No special preparation is required for the test. You can eat normally and take prescribed medications.
- Once you receive your test results, always discuss them with your doctor .
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